A former Chief Executive of AngloGold Ashanti and former Chancellor of the University of Gold Coast, Sir Sam Jonah, says that true sustainable growth goes beyond financial figures and is ultimately about people.

According to Sir Jonah, building a strong corporate culture where employees feel valued and empowered is key to long-term success.

“Sustainable growth isn't just about numbers. It is about people. I have always believed in creating a culture where employees feel valued and empowered to innovate,” he stated.

He was speaking at the Gold Coast University Leadership Conversation in Accra on Saturday, March 22, under the theme; 'Global Leadership and Corporate Governance Strategies for Sustainable Business Growth'.

He explained that at AngloGold Ashanti, significant investments were made in training and development programs to build local capacity.

He stated that by partnering with global experts, the company not only upheld world-class standards but also fostered a sense of ownership and pride among employees.

Sir Sam Jonah stated that for businesses to thrive, leadership must go beyond mere financial performance.

He pointed out that a company’s ability to nurture and develop its workforce directly impacts its long-term sustainability.

He also stressed the importance of intentional succession planning, stating that identifying high-potential talent early, providing them with challenging opportunities, and investing in their development ensures continuity and stability.

Mentorship, he said, plays a critical role in preparing the next generation of leaders.

"At AngloGold Ashanti, we prioritize diversity, not just as a moral obligation, but as a business necessity. Diverse teams are better equipped to solve complex problems and drive sustainable growth, and leaders must actively champion diversity and create inclusive environments where everyone can thrive."

Sir Sam Jonah also touched on corporate social responsibility, recalling efforts at AngloGold Ashanti to rid local communities of toxic elements that posed health risks.

He noted that balancing social impact with financial stability required significant investment, especially in a volatile gold market.

“We did the need to save precious lives on the one hand, on the other hand, we did not simply wait to be taught around by market fluctuations. We diversified, we hedged where it needed to, and we managed our risk,” he explained.