In an era defined by uncertainty, complexity, and relentless change, the demands on leaders have evolved dramatically.

Today’s leaders are no longer expected to have all the answers. Instead, they must learn to adapt, reflect, and create spaces where others can grow.

In this special leadership edition of Core Insights, we explore adaptive leadership - a dynamic, human-centred approach to leading through uncertainty.

Joined by Sanjiv Patel (leadership coach, TED speaker, WBS Global Advisory Board member and Regional Chair of Europe for the School's Global Alumni Network) and Dimitris Spyridonidis, Associate Professor of Leadership and Innovation, this conversation takes a deep dive into the personal and professional realities of leading today.

Leadership is not static - it's contextual

“Leadership is always contextual,” says Dr Spyridonidis. The old image of the decisive, infallible leader has given way to something far more nuanced. Today’s leaders must navigate ambiguity, foster collaboration, and be comfortable with not having all the answers.

Sanjiv reinforces this view, sharing his personal model of leadership: reflect, reframe, reset.

“It’s about creating space to think clearly, to process what’s happening emotionally and strategically, and then move forward with conviction,” he says.

Adaptive leadership is not weakness - it’s the strength to embrace change and lead with purpose.

Self-awareness is the starting point

At the heart of adaptive leadership lies self-awareness. Dr Spyridonidis reminds us that leadership doesn’t begin with the team, it begins with knowing yourself.

“You must understand what assumptions you’re making about yourself, your challenges, and the people you lead,” says Dr Spyridonidis.

Sanjiv adds that for many leaders, the wake-up call comes not in moments of success, but at breaking point. His advice? Don’t wait for a crisis, build time into your day to reflect, disconnect, walk, and reset. This mental space isn’t indulgent, it’s essential.

From technical expert to human leader

Many people rise to leadership roles because of their technical expertise, but what has powered you to a leadership position won’t necessarily help you succeed once you’re there. As Dr Spyridonidis puts it: “The same mindset that earned you your first leadership role will stop you from going further.”

This transition from expert to enabler, requires emotional intelligence, humility, and a shift in mindset. Sanjiv speaks of his own journey from banking into entrepreneurship and mentorship, learning that it’s not just what you know, but how you lead that makes the real difference.

Embracing vulnerability without losing direction

One of the great tensions in modern leadership is the need to show vulnerability without undermining confidence. Leaders need to create safe spaces for honest conversations and diverse perspectives, but they must also maintain authority and direction.

As Sanjiv points out: “A leader must lead.”

Listening is vital, but so is clarity. Sanjiv’s experience in the boardroom taught him that humility doesn’t mean indecision. Instead, true servant leaders balance empathy with execution, and emotional intelligence with consistency.

Leading with people in mind, not just profit

In a changing world, profit alone is no longer a sustainable measure of success.

“You might have a present, but I’m not sure you’ll have a future,” warns Dr Spyridonidis, if businesses focus solely on shareholder value.

Today’s leaders must account for employees, communities, the environment, and future generations.

Sanjiv echoes this sentiment, describing his work with companies that design office spaces for wellbeing and community, not just productivity. Whether it’s hybrid working or wellbeing-centred design, leaders who embrace the human side of work will build stronger, more resilient organisations.

Redefining leadership for the next generation

The next generation of leaders has grown up in a very different world; one shaped by COVID, digital learning, and remote interaction. Many will have entered the workforce without ever sitting in a meeting room or navigating face-to-face conflict.

This presents both a challenge and an opportunity. As Sanjiv suggests, organisations must now reimagine physical workspaces as places of belonging, not obligation. Meanwhile, Dr Spyridonidis highlights that adaptability and emotional intelligence will be crucial for this emerging generation - not just technical proficiency.

Key takeaways

  • Leadership is contextual and dynamic. What worked before may not work now. Stay open.
  • Self-awareness is the foundation. Reflect on your assumptions, emotions, and patterns.
  • Let go of old models. Being an expert doesn’t automatically make you a leader.
  • Balance humility with clarity. Adaptive leaders listen, but also take decisions.
  • Prioritise purpose. Profit without people is a short-term win, not a long-term strategy.
  • Redefine success. Invest in wellbeing, values, and meaningful human connection.

Further reading:

Five steps to find your own leadership style

Five steps to harness adaptive leadership in turbulent times

How to be a responsible leader

 

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