At Business School, I studied iconic leaders like Richard Branson and Rupert Murdoch.
The lecturers were quick to imbue them with almost mythical power. Students learned the apex theory of organizations. It says everything follows the direction of a prophetic leader. After a number of years in blue chip organisations, I have come to see that this is fallible. Politicians think they direct countries, and businessmen lead companies. […]
WFH Challenges
The debate over workplace dynamics is intensifying. Recent moves by Amazon and political figures like Rachel Reeves have reignited discussions about the future of work. Amazon’s demand for employees to return to the office full-time, alongside Reeves’ call for British Civil Servants to do the same, suggests a shift in the tide. What was once […]
In the Law Firm: every new Partner faces piranhas – and I am not talking about clients!!
The transition from a successful fee earner to a true partner in a law firm can be daunting for newly promoted junior partners. They often face unique pressures, including the need to balance their previous relationships with colleagues and the expectations of their new role. The managing partner can play a crucial role in facilitating […]
Is there a clever way to ensure the success of a new Partner?
Succession planning. Too often, it’s treated as a mere formality, a box-ticking exercise to appease stakeholders. But this is a dangerous delusion. Drawing on insights from both strategic management and the principles of “Black Box Thinking” (as championed by Matthew Syed), true succession planning is about: Beyond “Potential”: Embracing the Growth Mindset and Deliberate Practice […]
The Paradox of Ambition: Why Even High Achievers Resist the BHAG
It’s a curious paradox, isn’t it? As a business coach, I’ve observed a recurring pattern among even the most accomplished entrepreneurs: a reluctance, a hesitation, when it comes to embracing the Big Hairy Audacious Goal (BHAG). They intellectually grasp the power of a compelling, long-term vision to propel them forward, yet something holds them back. […]
Why Thinking Differently is the Key to Thriving in Professional Services
For years, professional services firms have built their success on expertise—deep technical knowledge, years of experience, and a proven track record. But in today’s fast-changing world, this is no longer enough. The challenges we face—technological disruption, complex client needs, and global uncertainty—demand something more: cognitive diversity. What is cognitive diversity? Cognitive diversity is about bringing […]