An Interview with Ruth Kelly, Chair, Thames Freeport | Introduced by Odgers

'Introduced by Odgers' features exceptional individuals appointed to prestigious leadership positions globally, demonstrating our strong client partnerships across various industries and sectors. 

Paul Butterworth, Head of Odgers’ Maritime & Shipping Practice, caught up with Ruth to discover how her leadership approaches have influenced the economic zone, as well as her key three attributes necessary for successful leadership. 

How does your leadership influence your company and its wider stakeholders? 

I make a conscious effort to step back and stay focused on the long-term vision and strategy for the area. It’s important to avoid getting too caught up in the inevitable bureaucracy and short-term issues that come up day-to-day. Of course, they need to be dealt with so we can move forward—but they’re just hurdles, not the destination. 

What really matters is keeping our eyes on the bigger picture and the size of the prize.

I think that’s what I particularly bring to the Freeport - helping to keep that clarity and momentum toward our shared goals. 

What are your top three tips for success in leadership? 

1. Keep in sight of, and stay committed to the big picture. 
2. Make sure you have the best people at board and executive level. Specifically on our Board, I brought in three top rated non-executives to support decision making of the team which has been really valuable.  
3. Have a relentless focus on business impact. Whatever we do has to contribute towards making the Thames Freeport area in the long term a better and more prosperous place for local people to live. 

Introduced by Odgers | Success Story  

Odgers partnered with Thames Freeport to identify a visionary Chair, with Rt Hon. Ruth Kelly commencing her role in November 2021. 

To learn more about Ruth’s attraction to join Thames Freeport, her future goals, and her journey with Odgers, read her unique success story below.  

Introduced by Odgers | Rt Hon. Ruth Kelly Success Story 

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