Leaders as a Force for Good
What’s new. The leaders of purpose-driven companies, with a focus on sustainability, work to manage thriving companies that also save our planet and society today and for future generations. Cultivating a purpose-driven organization requires rethinking the Purpose, Mindset, Knowledge and Capabilities of leaders.
Why it matters. Let’s be honest, the topic of sustainability is complex. Even companies recognized for their sustainability practices face challenges as they seek to live their values and run a successful business. There is a clear challenge for leaders in navigating through the political, financial, and academic debates about sustainability. Being an impactful sustainability leader requires purposeful stewardship to ensure the future of people, profit, and planet.
As of 2024, 75% of executives believe sustainability drives better business outcomes, and 76% report it being central to their strategy, according to an IBM study.
So, what’s it take? My colleague and member of the One Earth Leadership Community, Gillian Scholes, Ph.D. writes that it requires a deep commitment to sustainability, and new Business Competencies, like:
Shared Value
Futures Literacy
Biomimicry
Circularity
Enhanced Leadership Competencies are grounded in:
Self-awareness
Systems thinking
Broadening the view of stakeholders and understanding the inter-dependencies
And let’s consider values & skills. Sustainability leaders are highly collaborative and inclusive, ethical and demonstrate humility. They are empathetic and excellent listeners. Often radical changemakers, they possess drive and capacity for vision and innovation. They tell their stories in compelling ways and engage both the hearts and minds of their organization’s people.
The bottom line. Well-intentioned companies that feel the responsibility of being sustainably run, require modern business and leadership competencies that are future fit for purpose, people, planet, & profit.
What is your company doing to actively develop sustainability leaders?
“Be the change you wish to see in this world.” – Mahatma Gandhi
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A FRESH APPROACH | Chiefly & Co.’s fractional experts accelerate sustainability & profitability for companies driven to do well while doing good. Learn more at chiefly-co.com
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