Leila’s Leadership Journey with COVA Cambodia: A Conversation You’ve just stepped into the role of Country Leader for Cambodia. How does that feel? It is incredibly exciting, with a palpable energy about what we can achieve. I am honoured and grateful to mentors, colleagues and clients who shaped this path. Ready for challenges, motivated to learn and grow.
- Can you share a little about your journey with COVA so far?
My journey is defined by continuous growth. From day one, I felt empowered to take ownership, crucial for my development. I also learned immensely from high-performing teams across Asia and Australia. Our IMS shaped a disciplined approach to quality, and the alignment with COVA’s core values is what keeps me engaged.
- What have been some of your proudest moments?
I am most delighted when we complete complex projects with happy clients and equally, seeing my team grow, develop, and celebrate brings immense pride. Hitting targets and achieving good profit means a sustainable future. It is the trifecta: happy clients, happy team, healthy business.
- What does this promotion mean to you, both personally and professionally?
Personally, it is a powerful affirmation that, as a woman in this field, anything is possible with hard work. I hope it inspires more women to see themselves as future leaders and to break barriers. We need more voices at the table, to lead with impact, and to contribute at a higher strategic level. Professionally, it means more responsibility but greater influence to create positive change.
My Vision for COVA Cambodia
- Your vision for Cambodia?
My vision for COVA Cambodia is that of dynamic growth and enduring impact with the young generation at its heart. We are committed to making COVA a place where everyone can thrive through constant learning, upskilling with the latest technologies and meaningful ownership. By patiently building sustainable excellence and cultivating future leaders, my aspiration is for COVA to be recognised as a leading force in the market, driven by our burgeoning local talent, contributing to Cambodia’s broader development.
- What is your leadership philosophy?
My philosophy is rooted in participation. I empower my team to share ideas and take ownership. I strive to lead by example in dedication and problem-solving. We are all part of the same team, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and has a role in our collective success.
- What excites you most about leading the Cambodia team?
Their incredible sense of ownership truly excites me. This young, dedicated group feels like built on long-standing bonds and genuine care. They embrace flexibility and work-life balance while being fiercely committed to delivering exceptional results. It is a privilege to lead such a driven, cohesive unit.
- How would you describe the culture of the Cambodia team?
Our Cambodia team culture is collaborative, built on active knowledge sharing across disciplines. We constantly discuss lessons learned, making cross-functional learning productive. It is a deeply supportive environment where every voice is valued, and the best solutions emerge from leveraging each other’s expertise. Mutual respect is the bedrock of our strong teamwork and out ability to tackle any challenge together.
- Can you share a moment when you felt particularly proud of your team?
Absolutely. I am proud when the team finds solution to complex problems without much supervision, like when they proactively grouped together to meet a tight deadline, demonstrating independence and professionalism. Beyond projects, I am sincerely pleased of how seriously they approachd Performance Development Reviews, truly taking ownership of their growth potential and career paths.
Quickfire Questions Three words to describe your leadership style? Empowering, Strategic, Connected. As Simon Sinek said, “ A good leader is someone who takes a little more than their share of the blame and a little less than their share of the credit.” That resonates with my approach - lifting the team up.
- A piece of advice you live by?
Always maintain a growth mindset. In this evolving field, never stop learning, adapting, and challenging my own assumptions.
- What message or reflection would you like to share with your colleagues across the COVA network?
Change truly does start from within. Our attitude and mindset are everything. They are teh engine that drives our growth, our ability to adapt and our capacity to innovate.
Quickfire Questions
- Three words to describe your leadership style?
Empowering, Strategic, Connected. As Simon Sinek said, “A good leader is someone who takes a little more than their of the blame and a little less than their share of the credit.” That resonates with my approach - lifting the team up.
- A piece of advice you live by?
Always maintain a growth mindset. In this evolving field, never stop learning, adapting, and challenging my own assumptions.
- What message or reflection would you like to share with your colleagues across the COVA network?
Change truly does start from within. Our attitude and mindset are everything – they are the engine our growth, our ability to adapt, and our capacity to innovate.
