In this episode, Trina McCarroll sits down with Lowell Befus, Regional Sales Director for ATB Agriculture, to explore the interplay between strategy and culture at every level of an organization. Drawing on more than two decades of experience in agriculture finance, Lowell shares how a clearly defined culture aligned with strategic goals can empower employees and strengthen accountability in high-performing teams. Together, they discuss the balance between care and accountability in leadership, the role of communication and feedback, and how intentional alignment between strategy and culture leads to exceptional organizational results.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Strategy decisions can be both macro and micro, depending on the level of the organization.
Accountability is crucial for team success and individual responsibility.
Culture is foundational to employee satisfaction and retention.
Leaders must create an environment where employees feel valued and heard.
Feedback should be encouraged and seen as a tool for improvement.
Work-life balance is essential for employee productivity and mental health.
Building relationships with employees fosters trust and open communication.
Culture and strategy must align for organizational success.
Leaders should view their employees as customers to enhance their experience which creates greater success for the organization.
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CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Strategy
01:46 Understanding Strategy in Business Units
04:29 The Role of Accountability in Culture
04:58 The Importance of Organizational Culture
10:45 Linking Strategy and Culture
14:15 Balancing Accountability and Care in Leadership
18:36 Balancing Strategy and Culture
22:50 The Role of Leadership in Employee Experience
22:57 Adapting Strategy to Day-to-Day Operations
22:57 Shifting Organizational Culture
23:00 Final Thoughts and Advice
ABOUT LOWELL BEFUS:
Lowell Befus is the Regional Agriculture Director North Central Alberta for ATB and has worked for over 20 years in the agriculture finance industry. He combines his passion for ag, finance, and leadership together to best serve his employees and customers.
Learn more about ATB here or connect with Lowell on LinkedIn.
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.