As a trailblazer in executive education, Maria Ftelleha Markidou brings over two decades of experience in designing and delivering high-impact executive programs that empower leaders. As the Head & Co-Founder of the Life Changing Ideas Speaker Series, Maria curates innovative leadership development initiatives and masterclasses, fostering growth and transformation in executives worldwide. Her remarkable career is a testament to the profound impact of mentorship and dedication on professional success.
A Journey of Inspiration and Impact
Maria co-founded the Life Changing Ideas executive training series as a response to the death of inspirational initiatives in Cyprus following the 2013 financial crisis. With over 20 years of experience in executive education, Maria recognized the importance of learning, development, and global perspectives in driving growth and motivation. She sought to fill this gap by creating a platform that would bring together global thought leaders and business professionals, fostering hope, inspiration, and engagement.
Executive Education in Cyprus: Challenges and Opportunities
The executive education landscape in Cyprus has undergone significant changes, driven by the shift from family businesses to larger organizations and the emergence of global tech companies. Industries such as banking, telecoms, and energy have also transformed, leading to the growth of professional HR departments focused on learning and development. Additionally, the changing attitudes and expectations of Millennials and Gen Z have prompted employers to invest in executive training.
Life Changing Ideas, offered by the University of Nicosia, addresses these challenges by providing impactful training with world-class experts and best-selling authors, catering to the needs of HR professionals and their teams.
The Pillars of Success in Executive Education
Maria emphasizes that certain universal values are essential for leadership success, particularly in executive education. Listening to clients’ needs is crucial, as it allows for adaptability and relevance. Trust is also vital as companies and employees will only work with those they trust. Consistency and clarity in the offering and behavior are equally important, fostering strong relationships and driving success in today’s fast-paced world.
The Power of Executive Education
Executive education plays a vital role in shaping organizations continuous learning and development. It is in fact the only way to keep up with constant disruptions, crises and new norms. Executive training empowers managers to learn, unlearn, and relearn practices, ensuring they stay relevant in the evolving workplace. Institutions like the University of Nicosia, which pioneers the adoption of new technologies and modern educational methods, is proudly nurturing students to adapt to the future of education, we well as offering Exec. Education courses to help managers navigate the emerging work challenges.
Turning Obstacles into Opportunities
This ever-changing landscape of executive education presents numerous challenges, including the disruption caused by COVID-19, which forced a shift from in-class to online delivery. Keeping participants engaged in online or hybrid settings proved particularly daunting. Furthermore, the surge in competition from providers and digital platforms, coupled with an overwhelming array of training options, often leads to choice paralysis.
To overcome these challenges, Maria focused on maintaining high-quality delivery and carefully curating programs with world-class speakers and tutors who are industry experts, thereby ensuring enduring value and relevance.
Achieving Balance as a Leader
Maria emphasizes that maintaining a balance between work and personal life requires intentional decision-making. To achieve this balance, she prioritizes her commitment, takes on less when necessary, and is more discerning about collaborations and opportunities. By adopting the principle “less is more” and being willing to say “no” when needed, she ensures that she can deliver quality in both her professional and personal life. This mindful approach enables her to navigate the demands of leadership while nurturing her well-being.
Upcoming Initiatives and Programs
Maria is excited about several upcoming initiatives. The Experience Summit, a half-day event focused on leadership, is set to become a premier gathering in Cyprus, featuring compelling speakers and offering significant value to attendees. Additionally, she is developing a 16-hour leadership program designed to equip mid-senior managers with the skills needed to become impactful leaders. These initiatives aim to drive positive change and empower professionals in the region.
The Key Motivating Factor
Maria’s love for what she does fuels her dedication and commitment to achieving notable results and making a meaningful impact.
Shaping the Future of Executive Education
Maria envisions a future where organizations and HR departments prioritize investing in their people through executive education. She also hopes that the Cypriot government will adopt proactive and impactful training programs for public sector leadership. The University of Nicosia is poised to play a leading role in driving these developments, contributing to the growth and development of professionals in Cyprus.
Words of Wisdom
Maria advises aspiring leaders to surround themselves with top-notch teams and lead with trust, integrity, and a coaching mindset. By fostering a culture that empowers and multiplies talent, leaders can unlock their team’s full potential and drive success. Effective leadership is key to communicating a compelling vision and inspiring others to believe in it.
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