Yirenkyi-Addo wins ‘Deloitte CEO Impact Award’ – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a landmark achievement for leadership and service in professional services, Gilbert Yirenkyi-Addo, an Associate Director in Tax and Regulatory at Deloitte Ghana, has been named the winner of the 2025 Deloitte CEO Impact Award. This prestigious recognition highlights not only individual excellence but also the power of purposeful leadership to drive positive change both within an organization and in broader communities. The award ceremony, which took place against the backdrop of a highly competitive field of 211 talented professionals across Africa, underscores the growing importance of values-driven leadership in today’s corporate landscape. Alongside this honor, Theresa Somuah, a Manager in Tax and Regulatory at Deloitte Ghana, was recognized as a runner-up, further cementing Ghana’s growing reputation for outstanding talent within the Deloitte network. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the award, its significance, the recipients’ contributions, and the broader implications for leadership and employee recognition in the professional services sector.

Key Points

Background

What is the Deloitte CEO Impact Award?

The Deloitte CEO Impact Award is a distinguished honor established to celebrate leaders who exemplify the firm’s core values of integrity, outstanding service, and a commitment to making a measurable impact. Unlike awards that focus solely on financial performance or technical skills, the CEO Impact Award specifically seeks to recognize individuals who demonstrate a profound dedication to the development of their teams and the betterment of their communities. It serves as a testament to the belief that sustainable success is built on leadership that inspires, empowers, and uplifts others.

History and Evolution of the Award

While the 2025 edition marks a significant milestone, the Deloitte CEO Impact Award has its roots in the firm’s longstanding tradition of recognizing leadership that goes beyond traditional metrics. Over the years, the award has evolved to reflect changing organizational priorities, with an increasing emphasis on emotional intelligence, diversity and inclusion, and social responsibility. The expansion to include regional categories, such as the Africa region, underscores Deloitte’s commitment to identifying and celebrating talent from diverse geographies and cultural backgrounds.

Regional Significance: Africa in Focus

The Africa region has emerged as a dynamic hub of innovation and leadership within the Deloitte network. With 211 nominees vying for the CEO Impact Award, the level of competition highlights the depth of talent and the vibrant culture of service that characterizes the region. The recognition of professionals from Ghana not only celebrates individual achievement but also shines a spotlight on the country’s growing role as a center for excellence in professional services.

Analysis

Why Leadership and Service Matter in Professional Services

In the competitive world of professional services, technical expertise is often a given. What sets exceptional leaders apart is their ability to connect with their teams, foster a culture of continuous learning, and drive meaningful impact. The Deloitte CEO Impact Award underscores this truth by prioritizing qualities such as empathy, active listening, and a commitment to team development. Gilbert Yirenkyi-Addo’s emphasis on having “a listening ear to appreciate the personal and career challenges of colleagues” exemplifies the soft skills that are increasingly recognized as critical to long-term success.

The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Award Criteria

The selection criteria for the CEO Impact Award implicitly highlight the importance of emotional intelligence (EI). EI, which encompasses self-awareness, empathy, and relationship management, is a key predictor of leadership effectiveness. By recognizing individuals who demonstrate these traits, Deloitte sends a clear message that technical prowess must be complemented by the ability to inspire and support others.

Impact on Organizational Culture

Awards like the CEO Impact Award play a crucial role in shaping organizational culture. They serve as powerful reinforcement tools, signaling to employees what behaviors and values are most prized by the company. When leaders are celebrated for their commitment to team development and community impact, it encourages others to adopt similar approaches, creating a ripple effect that enhances overall morale and engagement.

Theresa Somuah and Team Excellence

The recognition of Theresa Somuah as a runner-up is further amplified by the achievement of her team, which won the 2025 Africa Tax & Legal Employee Recognition Awards. This dual honor illustrates the interconnectedness of individual leadership and team performance. A leader’s ability to create an environment of trust, efficiency, and high standards directly translates into superior client service and organizational success. The team’s consistent delivery and ability to exceed expectations are a testament to effective leadership and collaborative excellence.

Broader Implications for Talent Development in Africa

The success of professionals from Deloitte Ghana reflects a broader trend of talent development and recognition across Africa. As global firms increasingly invest in African markets, the ability to identify, develop, and retain local talent becomes paramount. Awards like the CEO Impact Award not only celebrate current achievements but also serve as inspiration for future generations of leaders, reinforcing the message that dedication and service are pathways to recognition and advancement.

Practical Advice

How to Cultivate Impactful Leadership

1. Prioritize Active Listening: Make a conscious effort to listen to your team members without judgment. Understanding their challenges and aspirations builds trust and loyalty.
2. Foster a Culture of Development: Invest in mentorship and training programs that empower your team to grow both personally and professionally.
3. Lead with Empathy: Recognize that your team members have lives beyond work. Supporting their well-being leads to higher engagement and productivity.
4. Set Clear Expectations: While being supportive, also ensure that goals and standards are clearly communicated and understood.
5. Celebrate Team Successes: Acknowledge and reward collective achievements to reinforce a sense of shared purpose.

Steps to Enhance Team Performance

1. Streamline Processes: Identify inefficiencies and implement solutions that save time and resources.
2. Focus on Client Service: Train your team to anticipate client needs and deliver solutions with excellence.
3. Encourage Collaboration: Create opportunities for cross-functional teamwork to foster innovation and knowledge sharing.
4. Measure and Track Progress: Use data-driven metrics to monitor performance and identify areas for improvement.
5. Promote Technical Excellence: Ensure your team stays updated with the latest industry trends and best practices.

Building a Recognition Culture

1. Implement Peer Recognition Programs: Allow team members to acknowledge each other’s contributions regularly.
2. Highlight Impact Stories: Share examples of how individual and team efforts have made a difference.
3. Align Recognition with Values: Ensure that recognition programs reinforce the behaviors and values most important to your organization.
4. Provide Growth Opportunities: Pair recognition with opportunities for advancement and skill development.
5. Be Consistent and Fair: Ensure that recognition is distributed equitably and based on clear criteria.

FAQ

Conclusion

The 2025 Deloitte CEO Impact Award serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership transcends technical expertise and financial metrics. The recognition of Gilbert Yirenkyi-Addo and Theresa Somuah highlights the transformative potential of empathy, active listening, and a genuine commitment to team development. As Deloitte continues to invest in its African operations, these awards not only celebrate current achievements but also set a benchmark for future leaders. By prioritizing purposeful leadership and selfless service, Deloitte is fostering a culture where individuals and teams can thrive, ultimately driving sustainable success and positive societal impact. The stories of Yirenkyi-Addo and Somuah offer valuable lessons for professionals across industries: that the most enduring legacies are built on the foundation of lifting others up.