In this episode, Trina McCarroll talks with Melanie Ducholke, Chief People Officer at the Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC), about the dynamic relationship between organizational culture and strategy. Melanie shares the important processes undertaken by AFSC to redefine their core values, align them with organizational strategy, and implement them. Learn how AFSC’s dedication to purposeful values has impacted both employees and clients and contributed to their success.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Values should resonate with team members to be effective.
Courageous conversations are essential for a healthy culture.
Leadership plays a crucial role in embedding values.
Assuming positive intent can transform communication.
A people-first approach enhances client service.
Data-driven insights can reshape organizational culture.
Values should be actionable and relatable.
Engagement surveys help gauge cultural health.
Creating a shared vocabulary fosters better relationships.
NEXT STEPS
1. Leave a review for Strategy & Culture Conversations here
2. Sign up for our newsletter here
CHAPTERS
00:00 Developing Organizational Culture and Values
01:18 Linking Strategy and Culture
04:13 Implementing Values in Daily Operations
06:52 Fostering Positive Communication and Relationships
09:51 Client-Centric Approach and Adaptability
21:04 Digital First Mindset
22:55 Values in Action
25:24 Engaging Employees with Values
26:39 Leadership and Culture
28:06 Defining Values and Behaviors
30:52 Courageous Conversations
32:02 Challenges in Implementation
ABOUT MELANIE DUCHOLKE:
With over 25 years of experience in the public industry and more than 20 years in leadership positions, Melanie brings a wealth of knowledge and a diverse perspective to her current role. Her extensive background includes teaching business courses, which has further enriched her understanding of organizational dynamics and leadership.
Melanie is a strong advocate for continual learning and development, always eager to seize
opportunities to learn from others. She is a collaborative leader who believes that success is achieved through building strong relationships across all levels of the business. Her ability to motivate teams to work together towards common goals, while ensuring individual recognition needs are met, is a testament to her exceptional leadership and communication skills.
Melanie holds a Bachelor of Education and an MBA. She is certified as a Human Resource Management Professional and a Supply Chain Management Professional, and she also holds an EQ360 certification. These qualifications, combined with her practical experience, make her a highly effective and respected leader.
Learn more about AFSC here or connect with Melanie on Linked In.
ABOUT TRINA MCCARROLL:
Trina McCarroll, CPF, CPHR helps leaders build thriving, high-performing teams through strategic planning, culture building, and transformation journeys. The team at McCarroll Consulting specializes in supporting municipalities, post-secondary institutions, and purpose-driven organizations across Alberta. Drawing on years of experience in facilitation and organizational transformation, Trina brings practical insight, curiosity, and courage to every conversation.
Learn more about McCarroll Consulting at www.mccarrollconsulting.com or connect with Trina on Linked In.
ABOUT STRATEGY & CULTURE CONVERSATIONS:
Strategy and Culture Conversations explores how senior leaders across Alberta navigate complexity, make intentional choices, and create teams where people can contribute their best work towards organizational success.