There is nothing wrong with someone questioning your authority/ being challenged. Lead with curiosity and aim to understand what's behind it. The proposed approach sounds more confrontational that it needs to be - why do you have to 'assert' anything?! Also I disagree with 'subtly reinforcing' anything as well. Have a conversation about their perspective, ask lots of questions. Then you can share your perspective, feelings and desires, and gain their thoughts on that. Create agreements on how to work collaboratively together and how to challenge each other in a respectful manner.

In this case, stay composed and respond with confidence. Use data and logic to support your position, and reframe the challenge as an opportunity for collaboration toward shared goals. You want to assert your decision clearly while maintaining professionalism and follow up one-on-one to address concerns and strengthen the relationship. This approach reaffirms your leadership while fostering trust and alignment.

When a C-suite exec challenges my authority, I don’t take the bait—instead, I lean on calm confidence. I acknowledge their perspective to show respect, but then I pivot back to the facts and the value I bring. For example, I might say, “I see where you’re coming from, and here’s how my approach can align with your goals.” Keeping the focus on collaboration rather than confrontation reminds them we’re on the same team. If needed, I re-establish boundaries by gently reinforcing my expertise. It’s about staying composed, steering the conversation back to the big picture, and proving value through action, not ego.

When a C-suite executive challenges your authority, staying calm and composed is key. Confidence in your decisions and expertise helps set the tone. Communicate clearly and assertively, using concise language to reaffirm your position while explaining the rationale behind your choices. Seek common ground to foster a collaborative approach and demonstrate your willingness to work towards shared goals. This balance of assertiveness and cooperation helps reinforce your leadership while maintaining respect and alignment.

When challenged, it is unlikely you have lost control and more likely they have lost confidence in you or in themselves. It's not a right or wrong thing to do. It's a human thing, and one's response (to challenge, to lash out, to evoke fear, to withdraw, etc.) is often reinforced by organizational culture, c-suite norms, past experiences, etc. So when it happens, (and it does happen), approach the other human (the exec) as a fellow human being. No game playing. You are 2 adults on a mission to serve in your leadership capacity. With courage, competence and kindness, maintain your dignity and open the space for vulnerability and a path forward that puts you both in a position of power, positivity and progress.