Leadership as a State of Mind: The Conscious Practice to Unconscious Competence In a ‘VUCA’ to ‘BANI’ era, successful leadership is far more than a position or authority. True leadership is a state of mind, a mindset intentionally developed and cultivated through conscious practice. The role of emotional intelligence, combined with a deep understanding of archetypes and personas, is critical for leaders who wish to navigate interpersonal dynamics, inspire teams, and adapt to change. Moreso, what I feel, with the proliferation of AI, the human aspect needs to be kept in good touch with! The foundation of modern leadership requires...

Vinayak Bhat – SVP, Senior Managing Director, Head of APAC The financial services industry plays a significant role in global economies, consisting of a wide range of sectors such as banking, insurance, asset management, and fintech. It facilitates the management of financial transactions, investments, and risks for individuals, businesses, and governments. Financial services companies continuously adapt to regulatory changes and market fluctuations while leveraging technology to improve efficiency and meet evolving customer expectations. Vinayak Bhat is a seasoned professional in the financial services sector, with extensive expertise in asset management and financial technology. His strategic insights and proactive approach have...

Leadership Blind Spots- Uncovering and Mitigating Unconscious Bias for Inclusive Leadership In the fast-paced world of leadership, decisions are often made under pressure, requiring leaders to rely on their instincts, experience, and judgment. However, beneath the surface of these decisions, unconscious bias can quietly influence actions and shape leadership in ways leaders may not even realize. Unconscious bias refers to the automatic, often unintentional, judgments or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions. For leaders, these biases can have profound implications—ranging from limiting diversity in teams to stifling innovation and creativity. Recognizing and mitigating unconscious bias is essential for...

Essential Leadership Qualities for Public Health Advocacy In the dynamic realm of public health advocacy, particularly within the sphere of tobacco harm reduction, leadership demands a unique blend of qualities. Foremost is a profound commitment to evidence-based decision-making, ensuring that policies and campaigns are rooted in solid scientific research. Leaders must possess exceptional communication skills, enabling them to effectively convey complex health information to diverse audiences, from policymakers to the general public. Collaboration is paramount, as fostering strong alliances with stakeholders, including health organizations, researchers, and consumer groups, can amplify advocacy efforts. Resilience and adaptability are crucial, allowing leaders to...

The Importance of Self-Awareness in Executive Leadership In the fast-paced and complex world of executive leadership, the ability to understand and manage oneself is not just an advantage but a necessity. Self-awareness, the conscious knowledge of one’s own character, feelings, motives, and desires, is the cornerstone of effective leadership. It enables leaders to navigate the multifaceted challenges of their roles with clarity and purpose. Here, we explore the top four reasons why self-awareness is crucial for executive leaders, discuss the importance of raising self-awareness levels, and illustrate how it distinguishes exceptional leaders from the rest. – Enhancing Emotional Intelligence EI...

Dr. Jack Truong – Former CEO, James Hardie Industries, Plc Dr. Jack Truong, the former CEO of James Hardie, has built his career on two decades of successfully creating and leading strategies that drive companies towards their full growth potential. His track record is marked by his ability to lead turnarounds and spearhead growth initiatives, delivering swift and unique results through a focus on innovation, disruption, and efficiency. Known for his collaborative approach, Jack has an innate understanding of the diverse needs of consumers, customers, employees, investors, and shareholders. His journey with James Hardie began in 2017 initially serving as...