88 / Rotman Management Spring 20 19

Q

&A

How do you define a ‘challenge culture’—and why is it so

important to have one?

In a challenge culture, people are encouraged — even ex-

pected — to question the status quo and push back on long-

held assumptions. Employees are not afraid to speak up or to

question their bosses and peers, and they feel confident that

they won’t face repercussions if they do. In today’s world,

such a culture is essential to every organization’s survival.

Only through questioning, pushback and debate can you

remain relevant.

Many people view ‘challenge’ as a negative word. What

do you say to them?

That is true, and it’s the reason I always put the term togeth-

er with ‘culture’. In a challenge culture, questioning some-

one is intended to be a positive thing and discourse is always

civil. Challenge is very different from confrontation: It does

not involve attack, intimidation or bullying. Questioning,

The former CEO of

Dunkin’ Brands explains

the importance of

creating a ‘challenge

culture’ in every organization.

Interview by Karen Christensen

QUESTIONS FOR Nigel Travis, Chairman, Dunkin’ Brands