Lead with humility and humanity, from a place of deep conviction: Cecile Frot-Coutaz – Head of EMEA YouTube, @ Google: – interview with Jonathan Bowman-Perks MBE

135. Cecile Frot-Coutaz – Head of EMEA YouTube, @ Google Cecile Frot-Coutaz; Leads the business of YouTube in Europe, The Middle and Africa, formerly CEO of Fremantle, one of the leading global producers of entertainment programming. Cecile derives her leadership insights from decades of experience at the helm of creative teams and businesses. The phrase “People are at the heart of what we do” is true for most companies but it takes a special meaning in the creative world. Not being a creative herself, Cecile had to develop different muscles to be effective and is taking those lessons with her.

Cecile joined YouTube in October 2018 as the Head of YouTube for Europe Middle East and Africa, in charge of the YouTube business, strategy and content partnerships in the complex and ever changing region. Prior to joining YouTube, Cecile was CEO of Fremantle, one of the largest global creators, producer and distributor of entertainment, drama and factual content. Cecile started her media career at Pearson, following an MBA from INSEAD. She helped transform Pearson Television to a leading international producer. She led the case for the Fremantle acquisition, which led to senior roles running Pearson’s operations in Spain, Italy and France.

After a short stint in San Francisco creating online and interactive strategies for Pearson Television, Cecile joined the North American headquarters of the newly re-branded FremantleMedia in 2002 where she had a number of senior roles leading to her promotion to CEO, North America in 2005, and subsequently CEO of the Group. Outside of work, being a native of the French Alps, she loves spending time in the mountains, as well as travelling to remote places.

Top tip: Lead with humility and humanity, from a place of deep conviction. Build the story that will inspire, surround yourself with the best and listen deeply to others in order to find the variation that will lead to innovation.