021: Redefining Masculinity in Tech: Why Inclusive Leadership is the Future

The landscape of leadership in tech is once again under scrutiny, particularly in light of recent political and corporate shifts. With President Trump’s new executive order banning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and Mark Zuckerberg’s call for "more masculine energy" at Meta , the industry faces a pivotal moment in defining what effective leadership looks like.

At a time when innovation demands collaboration, adaptability, and emotional intelligence, reverting to outdated notions of masculinity risks stifling progress. Instead, modern leadership must focus on personal development, valuing difference, and fostering inclusive environments where diverse teams thrive.

This shift aligns with the principles of "The SAFE Leader" framework—Share, Act, Feel, Empower—which champions leadership qualities that promote sustainable success.

The Pitfalls of "More Masculine Energy"

Zuckerberg’s assertion that Meta needs "more masculine energy" perpetuates a narrow and counterproductive view of leadership. If masculinity is defined by aggression, dominance, and risk-taking without reflection, it can create cultures of exclusion, fear, and burnout. Instead, leadership should encourage a broader spectrum of qualities—resilience, emotional intelligence, collaboration, and adaptability.

The tech sector, long criticised for its lack of diversity and inclusion, cannot afford to embrace regressive leadership models. Doing so alienates talent, stifles psychological safety, and undermines the very culture of innovation that companies strive to cultivate.

Inclusive Leadership: The Key to Innovation and Growth

In contrast to hierarchical and authoritarian models, inclusive leadership recognises that strength comes from valuing diverse perspectives and fostering an environment where all voices are heard. This approach benefits not only historically underrepresented groups but also men themselves, who should not be forced into restrictive expressions of masculinity that discourage vulnerability, collaboration, or emotional intelligence.

The SAFE Leadership Framework in Action

Sharing as a Leadership Strength

True leadership involves sharing knowledge, responsibility, and recognition. Rather than reinforcing solitary, hyper-competitive leadership models, leaders should cultivate open dialogue and collaborative decision-making. Encouraging psychological safety in teams leads to more creativity and problem-solving—key drivers in a fast-paced industry like tech.

Acting for Inclusive Growth

With DEI initiatives under attack, leaders must be proactive in fostering inclusive workplaces. It is no longer enough to acknowledge the value of diversity—leaders must take deliberate action to ensure that their teams reflect and benefit from varied perspectives. This includes mentoring diverse talent, championing inclusive hiring practices, and challenging bias in decision-making.

Feeling: The Power of Emotional Intelligence

Dismissing empathy and emotional intelligence as "soft skills" is a mistake. Research consistently shows that emotionally intelligent leaders build more resilient, engaged, and high-performing teams. Understanding and managing emotions—both one’s own and those of others—is essential in navigating conflict, inspiring teams, and making informed decisions.

Empowering Teams, Not Just Individuals

True leadership is not about asserting dominance; it is about empowering others to lead. By decentralising decision-making and trusting team members, leaders create cultures of accountability and ownership. This shift enables organisations to be more agile and responsive to challenges, while also fostering greater job satisfaction and innovation.

Moving Forward: The Future of Leadership in Tech

The debate around masculinity in leadership is not just about semantics—it has real consequences for the culture of tech companies and their ability to remain competitive. A reversion to rigid, outdated forms of masculinity is not the answer. Instead, leadership must evolve to embrace a fuller range of human qualities, from courage and decisiveness to empathy and collaboration.

By rejecting performative toughness and embracing inclusive leadership, the tech industry can build cultures that support personal development, foster innovation, and truly value difference. In doing so, companies will not only retain top talent but also create the conditions necessary for long-term success.

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