Bossing It: The Weight of Responsibility with Victoria Ijeh-Allen
Victoria Ijeh-Allen is an award-winning filmmaker and entrepreneur, with a desire to help young people develop a growth mindset and understand that barriers can be used as stepping stones. Victoria pulls from her own personal journey and the push her Nigerian mother gave her to form the understanding that in all things a holistic approach is needed to see a lasting effect.
Victoria has a passion to create an inclusive media industry and founded Iconic Steps in 2012 with the support and backing of the British Film Institute. Iconic Steps was the first company to take a holistic approach to supporting young people into employment in the media industry with dedicated pastoral staff. To date, Iconic Steps has supported over 400 young people with 75% finding employment.
Victoria has spoken on various occasion including (London Southbank University) ‘Our Creative Futures’ event, Clothworkers Foundation ‘Master in Conversation with…’ series, STRIDE ‘Barrier Breakers’ event and workshops run by The School of Social Entrepreneurs.
Victoria was listed on The Social Entrepreneur Index 100 in 2020, was selected to be part of PwC & SSE inaugural Black Entrepreneurs Programme and sits as an observer on MCA Board of Directors. Victoria is deeply influenced by her Christian faith.
LBB> What was your first experience of leadership?
Victoria> My first experience of leadership came unexpectedly when I was a receptionist managed by the CFO. He balanced firmness with genuine interest in my growth, encouraging me to pursue my passions. His approach left a lasting impression on me and set the foundation for my leadership journey.
LBB> How did you figure out what kind of leader you wanted to be – or what kind of leader you didn’t want to be?
Victoria> I discovered my leadership style through observation and curiosity. I engaged in conversations with friends about their experiences with different leaders, learning from their examples of effective and ineffective leadership. This reflection helped me define the type of leader I aspire to be.
LBB> What experience or moment gave you your biggest lesson in leadership?
Victoria> My biggest lesson in leadership came from working with team members who didn't resonate with my leadership style. This challenging experience taught me the importance of self-reflection and resilience, helping me adapt and grow as a leader.
LBB> Did you know you always wanted to take on a leadership role? If so how did you work towards it and if not, when did you start realising that you had it in you?
Victoria> Leadership found me when I founded Iconic Steps. As the company grew, I realised I had to step up to support the young people we serve. It was a natural progression driven by the responsibility I felt towards our mission and community.
LBB> When it comes to 'leadership' as a skill, how much do you think is a natural part of personality, how much can be taught and learned?
Victoria> Good leadership is a blend of natural charisma and learned skills. While some people are naturally inclined to lead, true leadership effectiveness comes from learning, adapting, and developing through experience and guidance from others.
LBB> What are the aspects of leadership that you find most personally challenging? And how do you work through them?
Victoria> The weight of responsibility and being the go-to person can be challenging. I rely on a strong board of directors and a mentor to provide guidance and support, ensuring I’m not shouldering the burden alone.
LBB> Have you ever felt like you've failed whilst in charge? How did you address the issue and what did you learn from it?
Victoria> Yes, my first encounter with a difficult employee felt like a failure. I learned to identify my trigger points and developed patience, realising that immediate answers aren’t always possible. This experience taught me to be more thoughtful and strategic
LBB> In terms of leadership and openness, what’s your approach there? Do you think it’s important to be transparent as possible in the service of being authentic? Or is there a value in being careful and considered?
Victoria> Transparency is crucial but must be balanced with wisdom. Sharing necessary information builds trust without causing undue stress or anxiety. Being considerate about how and when to share information is key to maintaining a healthy work environment.
LBB> As you developed your leadership skills did you have a mentor, if so who were/are they and what have you learned? And on the flip side, do you mentor any aspiring leaders and how do you approach that relationship?
Victoria> I’ve always had mentors, with Pat Murphy, CEO of MCA, currently guiding me. His insights into business and leadership have been invaluable. I also mentor aspiring leaders, focusing on open communication and providing support tailored to their growth.
LBB> In continually changing market circumstances, how do you cope with the responsibility of leading a team through difficult waters?
Victoria> I rely on my board for advice and focus on continuous self-improvement. Maintaining optimism within the team is essential, as it ensures resilience and keeps the work environment positive and productive, even during tough times.
LBB> As a leader, what are some of the ways in which you’ve prioritised diversity and inclusion within your workforce?
Victoria> Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in our workforce, mirroring the diverse young people we support. We focus on building and developing talent from various backgrounds to foster an inclusive environment.
LBB> How important is your company culture to the success of your business? And how have you managed to keep it alive with increases in remote and hybrid working patterns?
Victoria> Company culture is vital for engagement and retention. We maintain it through regular staff events and shared meals when in the office, ensuring a sense of community and connection even with remote and hybrid work patterns.
LBB> What are the most useful resources you’ve found to help you along your leadership journey?
Victoria> The most valuable resource for me has been the Bible, especially the stories of King David and Nehemiah, which offer profound insights into leadership and resilience.
