Apprenticeship Leadership

As a female international business leader inspiring a workforce sector predominantly female oriented, effective leadership is a constant challenge. Learning from the best in the business world over the last 35 years has helped enormously, listening to the wisdom of Entrepreneurs and role modelling the success of Chairman & CEOs and a Member of Parliament, that I have worked for in the past. However 21st century leadership is something that all of us need to instil into ourselves, taking ownership and leadership of our own lives, not just at work, but in our personal lives as well. With the rapid changes and advancements in technology we have more opportunities than ever to showcase our talents, so use it to your advantage. Effective leadership both personally and professionally is about being authentic (being true to yourself and your values), the ability to manage complexity and uncertainty (which is now permanent for all of us!), think globally (stay up to date with international issues), develop resilience (avoid burnout), collaborate with others (do not believe you have all the answers!), be creative and problem solve and make courageous decisions. With this checklist to measure yourself against you have a toolkit to manage your life and your business. One of my role models was Sir Christopher Bland (Chairman of BT plc 2001-2007 and former Chairman of the BBC) who I had the privilege to work for as his Executive Assistant at BT. A tough, no nonsense leader, sharp, wise, proactive with a high IQ and the ability to sum up situations at a moment's notice. His leadership of BT plc make great changes and put BT on the path of success it is today. I feel privileged to have been his Apprentice. Who are your role models?