Pernod Ricard Nigeria Boss Shares Roadmap For Business Growth At Business Leadership Masterclass Chat
For entrepreneurs, the challenge is not simply starting a business, but moving it from an idea to a viable, sustainable enterprise. These were the views of Michael Ehindero, Managing Director of Pernod while sharing practical roadmaps for achieving business growth at at the Business Leadership Masterclass (BLM) monthly fireside chat series hosted by Dr. Joshua Ademuwagun.
Outlining strategies for navigating Nigeria’s complex business environment, Ehindero began by emphasising that growth is not accidental. It is a deliberate and structured process. “Growth is a process. Between the big idea and execution, there are so many steps in between. Trust the process. Growth should be sustainable,” he said.
He noted that many businesses falter because founders underestimate the work required to move an idea from concept to market-ready product or service. Patience and discipline are essential, as shortcuts often compromise long-term viability.
Closely tied to structured growth is the need for consistency and adaptability. Ehindero explained that businesses must continuously respond to changing market realities, adjusting their offerings to align with what consumers can realistically afford. This requires monitoring demand trends, pricing strategies, and operational efficiency. “Never be rigid. Know your priorities. Be very nimble without losing sight of your vision,” he advised, highlighting that flexibility allows entrepreneurs to pivot while remaining true to their strategic goals. He noted that businesses that fail to adjust quickly to consumer needs or market shifts risk stagnation, regardless of the quality of their ideas.
Equally important, Ehindero stressed, is the role of people and partnerships in sustaining growth. In emerging markets, the quality of collaborators, including staff, associates, and external partners, often determines whether a business thrives or struggles. “One of the things required to thrive in an emerging market is the quality of partners you have. I consider even your staff as partners or associates. Aside from certification and qualifications, attitude matters,” he said. Aligning the right people to the business vision ensures operational efficiency, strengthens problem-solving capacity, and fosters innovation within teams.
With strong teams in place, entrepreneurs must also prioritise financial literacy and business structures. Many business owners launch ventures without a clear understanding of budgeting, cash flow, or planning for scalable growth. “People need the toolkit for financial education. Many go into businesses without being financially savvy. Having a business structure is essential,” Ehindero stated. He highlighted that strong financial foundations allow businesses to withstand market shocks and make informed decisions that drive sustainable growth.
Closely linked to financial planning is access to capital. Ehindero explained that entrepreneurs must strategically identify funding sources, from personal networks to private investors or institutional financing. He also highlighted the potential role of government in formalising structures and creating opportunities for businesses to access funding. “The government can help. If the structure can be formalised better, citizens will be able to tap into the financing opportunities available,” he said, noting that formalisation reduces risk and expands possibilities for scaling operations.
Together, these principles form Ehindero’s roadmap, anchored on four pillars: disciplined growth processes, responsiveness to market realities, strong partnerships, and financial intelligence. By following a structured path from ideation to execution, adjusting to consumer demand, cultivating committed teams, and maintaining solid financial foundations, entrepreneurs can build resilient, growth-oriented businesses.
In conclusion, Ehindero emphasised that building a successful business requires deliberate planning and continuous adjustment. Consistency in execution, clarity in priorities, the ability to pivot when necessary, and access to the right resources collectively form a practical blueprint for turning ideas into viable, resilient enterprises capable of navigating Nigeria’s dynamic business landscape.
