Mary Anane Awuku urges CEOs to prioritize employee well-being and foster workplace excellence

Mary Anane Awuku, a leading entrepreneur and CEO of Facility Pro, as well as Managing Director at Brain Hills International School, has called on business leaders to cultivate a culture of excellence by prioritizing employee well-being and fostering inclusive workplaces.

With a team of hundreds providing facility management services across key sectors like banking and healthcare, she understands firsthand the impact of workplace culture on productivity and success.

Speaking at the maiden edition of the Ghana CEO's Breakfast Series, organized by the Business Executive Group, she emphasized that a thriving business is built on a content and healthy workforce.

She stressed that while much has been said about the link between employee well-being and productivity, companies must go beyond discussions and embed meaningful strategies into their corporate culture.

She urged CEOs to prioritize employee well-being by creating policies that promote work-life balance, mental health support, and workplace flexibility. According to her, companies that offer competitive benefits, including good salary packages, health insurance, and wellness programs, demonstrate a true commitment to their employees. She believes that fostering a work environment where employees feel valued and supported is key to achieving sustainable business success.

A culture of excellence, she noted, is not merely about setting high standards but about creating an environment where employees feel inspired and motivated to perform at their best. She encouraged organizations to promote open communication, ensuring that employees feel heard and empowered to contribute. At Facility Pro, for instance, she has implemented a part-time shift system that provides flexibility for employees, which has improved job satisfaction and performance.

She also underscored the importance of mental health support, advocating for employee assistance programs and wellness workshops as part of workplace initiatives. Additionally, she highlighted the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion in building innovative and high-performing teams. According to her, companies that embrace inclusivity by supporting employees from different backgrounds, implementing mentorship programs, and organizing diversity-focused training sessions are better positioned to attract top talent.

Recognizing and rewarding excellence, she added, is another vital aspect of a high-performance workplace. Whether through monetary bonuses, public acknowledgments, or career growth opportunities, celebrating employee achievements fosters motivation and loyalty.

Mary Anane Awuku urged CEOs to take proactive steps in investing in their workforce by prioritizing well-being, fostering diversity, and celebrating achievements. She emphasized that creating workplaces that inspire excellence will unlock the full potential of employees and position businesses for long-term success. "Together, let’s continue to create workplaces that inspire excellence and unlock the workforce’s full potential," she stated.