This edition features a handful of Top 10 Inspirational CEOs in the Industries to Watch in 2023 several sectors that are at the forefront of leading us into a digital future.
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Top 10 Inspirational CEOs in the Industries to Watch in 2023.pdf
1. Exploring the Facets
Surprising Things Successful
Leaders Do Differently
Heart of Gold, Mind of Steel Shaping
Tomorrow's Healthcare
KerryL.Heinrich
Kerry L. Heinrich
President and CEO
Adventist Health
Top 10
Inspirational
CEOsin the
Industries to
Watch in
2023
VOL 09 I ISSUE 08 I 2023
The Perspectives
The Leadership Approaches
People Ignore but Shouldn't
2.
3. High Expectations are the key to
High Expectations are the key to
High Expectations are the key to
Absolutely Everything
Absolutely Everything
Absolutely Everything
4.
5. ne of the most crucial leadership traits that sets
Ogreat leaders apart from average ones is the
capacity to inspire. While there are many excellent
managers, there are very few excellent leaders who have the
ability to bring life, passion, and connection to their actions
and behaviors. Along with a crystal-clear vision, mission,
and dedication to integrity that directs them in everything
they do to improve the world.
Those who are inspirational leaders lead with a strong sense
of purpose and obligation to effect positive change. They
know exactly what their values are and don't give in when
under pressure to do something that would require
sacrificing those values.
They might not always become well-liked for this, but in
order to grow and scale the progress eventually, these adept
personalities understand the essential aspects that are
focused on cultivating an environment that makes their
employees feel comfortable coming and talking to them.
Inspiring leaders behave honorably because they are aware
that their employees are constantly watching and that every
action counts. They adhere to their values and incorporate
them into everything they do as a result. Moreover, risk-
taking ability is an essential part of leadership. Rosa Parks,
Henry Ford, and Elon Musk are a few leaders who have
made a difference in this world by taking courageous risks.
Successful teams inspire inspirational leaders to be
dedicated to and motivated by their work. They foster an
environment where people can come together to share their
experiences, knowledge, opinions, and ideas resulting in
disruption and innovation.
Accepting collaboration encourages people to step outside
of their comfort zones and learn from one another while
achieving great things. Employees then become more self-
assured and eager to take on more responsibility.
Embracing the journey of such resolute leadership
charismas, Insights Success features the enthralling stories
of the astute personas of the industry in its latest edition,
"Top 10 Inspirational CEOs in the Industries to Watch
in 2023.”
Flip through the pages and embrace the odyssey of
exploring the distinct approaches to cultivating wisdom
driven by passion and innovation.
Have a Delightful Read!
The Quest of
Excellence and Wisdom
7. 24
A R T I C L E S
The Perspectives
The Leadership Approaches
People Ignore but Shouldn't
Exploring the Facets
Surprising Things Successful
Leaders Do Differently
16
20
Mark Plitzuweit's Legacy
A Vision for Inclusive Learning Quality
educa on is about cra ing modules
that aid all students
C O N T E N T S
PROFILE
9. Brief
Company Name
Being a Social Entrepreneur, Adeshina is committed to
maximising the technology usage in small businesses in regards
to emerging markets finance and accessibility.
Featured Person
Trade Lenda
tradelenda.com
Adeshina Adewumi
CEO
Hamid spearheads the design and development of cutting-edge
solutions aimed at enhancing the quality of life, by leveraging
state-of-the-art technologies such as AI, IoT, ITS, Drones, etc.
QMIC
qmic.com
Hamid Menouar
Principal R&D and
Innovation Lead
Iman works on complex transformations, product start-ups,
scale-ups, delivery, and scale to end-to-end digital factories and
has over a decade in a variety of domains.
eXtra
extra.com
Iman Elnashar
Director of Digital
Experience and Product,
Regional
John is experienced in IT Management with a demonstrated
strong experience in Microsoft Infrastructure, Cloud adoption,
and Digital transformation and strategy.
QInvest LLC
qinvest.com
John Mankarios
Vice President
Kareem is an experienced Human Resources Lead, with a
demonstrated history of working in the banking industry and he
is skilled in Business Planning, Sales, Training Delivery,
Management, and Business Relationship Management.
The London Institute of
Banking & Finance
libf.ac.uk
Kareem Refaay
Managing Director
MENA and GULF
Mark has played an instrumental role in driving the company's
culture by ensuring that integrity and innovation remain the
core of driving it towards success.
Edkey® Inc.
edkey.org
Mark Plitzuweit
CEO
A talented, strategic and innovative business leader, Shoyinka
has a strong background in formulating business strategies and
technology, mitigating operational risks, transforming
businesses, capital project execution, etc.
MTN Nigeria
mtn.com
Shoyinka Shodunke
Chief Information
Officer
Sudarsan is an entrepreneurial-spirited, pioneering technologist
who has has a passion for technology-led services, focusing on
transformative solutions, digital services design, and product
design.
KeepFlying
keepflying.aero
Sudarsan Lakshmikumar
Co-founder and Chief
Technology Officer
Susana has over 20 years of experience and at LinkedIn, she
provides innovative solutions for her customers and partners
using her expertise in AI and tech.
LinkedIn
linkedin.com
Susana Correia
Regional leader
(Staffing and Scaled)-LinkedIn
Talent Solutions MENA
Kerry is passionate about creating improved healthcare with the
best quality care as the driving force redefining the impact of
well-being in the sector.
Adventist Health
adventisthealth.org
Kerry L. Heinrich
President and CEO
Top 10 Inspirational CEOs in the Industries to Watch in 2023
10. KerryL.Heinrich
Heart of Gold, Mind of Steel Shaping
Tomorrow's Healthcare
We are paying attention to the inpatient
side of the equation, but right now our
emphasis is on how we expand, grow and
develop our ambulatory footprint.
12. T
he field of healthcare is constantly evolving, with
new technologies and treatments being
developed all the time. This can be a challenge
for healthcare providers, who need to stay up-to-date
on the latest innovations while also providing
compassionate care to their patients.
However, innovation and compassionate care do not
have to be mutually exclusive. In fact, they can often
work together to improve the quality of care for
patients. When innovation and compassionate care are
combined, the result is better care for patients. Patients
receive the latest treatments, while also feeling
supported and understood by their healthcare
providers. This can lead to improved outcomes, such as
better health, less pain and shorter hospital stays.
Kerry L. Heinrich, the exceptional President and CEO
of Adventist Health, stands at the forefront,
spearheading transformative change in the industry.
Adventist Health is a distinguished faith-inspired,
nonprofit integrated health system serving over 80
communities on the West Coast and Hawaii. With an
impressive network of more than 400 sites of care,
including hospitals, clinics, home care agencies, hospice
agencies, and joint-venture retirement centers,
Adventist Health epitomizes the values and heritage of
the Adventist tradition.
Kerry's unwavering commitment to patient-centered,
quality care has become the driving force behind
Adventist Health's mission–to inspire health,
wholeness and hope by living God's love. Leading a
dedicated and talented team of 34,000 employees,
medical staff physicians, allied health professionals and
volunteers, Kerry ensures that every aspect of the
organization resonates with compassion and a whole-
person focus on physical, mental, spiritual and social
healing.
Embracing innovation and progressive healthcare
practices, Kerry envisions a transformative experience
for patients and communities. With an emphasis on
both rural and urban settings, Adventist Health is
dedicated to reaching far and wide, providing
comprehensive care and support to diverse
populations.
Through Kerry's exceptional leadership, Adventist
Health is redefining the healthcare experience, making
a significant impact on the well-being of countless
individuals across the West Coast and Hawaii. As a
person-oriented leader, Kerry's vision and passion
exemplify the true essence of the healthcare industry,
where every individual is valued, cared for and given
the opportunity to thrive.
Let's discover how Kerry is transforming healthcare with
compassion and innovation at Adventist Health!
Where Caring Hearts Thrive
Kerry began in the healthcare industry as an attorney
representing healthcare organizations and ultimately
transitioned into operations. His journey isn't the
traditional pathway to CEO, it has the roadblocks and
overcoming challenges at a good pace, but he became
so inspired by the difference one can make in people's
lives by working in healthcare that he pursued a career
in healthcare management. He says, "I have been
working in healthcare for 40 years and I have found it to be
much more of a calling than a job.”
Harvesting Hope
Adventist Health is a faith-based organization, and for
Kerry, that means that as an organization it cares
deeply about serving all people, from all faith
backgrounds—including those who do not consider
themselves of faith. Kerry states, "My vision is to provide
them with top-tier, quality care in our hospitals, clinics and
ambulatory sites.”
Kerry believes high-quality care is achieved by
nurturing an organization's employees and creating an
environment where they feel appreciated and proud of
the company they work for, with the knowledge and
tools needed to be successful.
Building Bridges, Not Walls
Maintaining a positive and inclusive work culture at
Adventist Health is very important to Kerry. He says, "I
believe it is the role of leadership to create an environment
where employees feel valued and cared for, as well as invest
in pathways that allow them to grow."
Kerry states, "We have empowered an internal Diversity,
Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Council to help us honor
each voice and create a future of greater inclusion." He also
adds, "I am grateful for our employees who believe in our
mission and are forces for good in the communities we
serve.”
13. My vision is to
provide them with
top-tier, quality
care in our
hospitals, clinics
and ambulatory
sites.
14. A Game of Inches
Kerry has selected a core team of skilled and
knowledgeable individuals to help develop strategic
plans and inform critical decisions. He says, "We have a
strong working relationship and highly trust one another."
They have the freedom to be creative and to be honest
in the conversations and he is very thankful for the
group's collective wisdom.
Adventist Health also has an Executive Cabinet
composed of smart, dedicated individuals who help
generate ideas and formulate strategic pathways.
Combined, the healthcare experience is tremendous
and the conversations help to inform later discussion
points with its board of directors.
The Golden Touch
Kerry says, "I am incredibly grateful for the talent we have
among our physician and nurse leaders who have taken the
time to thoroughly understand the quality and patient
satisfaction metrics, instituted processes that bring about
measurable improvement and inculcated the value of
patient satisfaction into everything we do."
He mentions his view is simple; How would you want
your family members to be treated if they were
patients in our hospital? That should be the standard
that is included in the care delivery at Adventist Health.
Wielding the Tech Sword
Adventist Health is working diligently to transform the
patient experience with consumer-friendly and digital-
friendly touchpoints. Kerry says, "I want patients to be
able to use their mobile devices to do everything from
accessing their medical records to checking on lab results
and imaging, scheduling appointments, to communicating
with a provider where appropriate."
This doesn't work for every patient, not all patients
want to interact with healthcare through mobile
devices and that's okay. He shares, "We'll continue to
serve those customers using their preferred methods of
communication, but we know the vast majority of patients
want to access healthcare through a digital-friendly
platform and we look forward to providing that next-level
digital experience.”
Blazing New Trails
With a passion for advancing healthcare, Kerry actively
engages with the California Hospital Association, a
remarkable organization that stands at the forefront of
healthcare advocacy and innovation. He says, the
association is a fantastic resource staffed by very
talented people. Interacting with an array of talented
individuals within the association, Kerry finds it to be an
invaluable resource, fostering a collaborative
environment for exchanging ideas and best practices.
Additionally, Kerry maintains a strong affiliation with
the esteemed American Hospital Association, which
has proven to be an indispensable asset in keeping
abreast of the ever-evolving developments and trends
in the healthcare industry.
The insights and knowledge gained through this
association have played a crucial role in shaping Kerry's
vision for Adventist Health, ensuring that the
organization remains at the cutting edge of healthcare
delivery and patient-centered solutions. Kerry's
dedication to fostering meaningful connections with
these prominent associations showcases a commitment
to continuous growth and excellence, ultimately
benefiting the communities Adventist Health serves.
Turning Over a New Leaf
As the accomplished President and CEO of Adventist
Health, Kerry possesses a visionary mindset that is
focused on transforming the organization's healthcare
delivery system. Kerry's keen interest lies in expanding
the ambulatory footprint of Adventist Health, driven by
a desire to enhance the overall patient experience and
optimize care on an outpatient basis.
This strategic approach encompasses a comprehensive
redesign of not only their clinics but also their hospital-
based ambulatory settings, ensuring seamless and
patient-centric interactions at every touchpoint. While
recognizing the significance of inpatient care, Kerry is
currently directing the organization's efforts towards
the growth and development of their ambulatory
services.
Through meticulous planning and forward-thinking
strategies, Kerry aims to position Adventist Health as a
leading provider of top-notch ambulatory care, catering
15. We have a strong working
relationship and highly trust
one another.
16. Bequeathing Wisdom
Healthcare management is more than a nine-to-five job.
It requires an unwavering commitment to the patients
and to each employee. Kerry's profound sense of
fulfillment and enthusiasm in his daily work is driven by
a deep-rooted passion for helping others. He states,
"What has kept me interested and excited to show up for
this work every day has been the opportunity to help
people." To him, this is not just a 'job,' but an integral part
of his life's purpose.
Embracing his role as a healthcare leader, Kerry
considers it a true blessing to be part of an environment
where he can make a positive impact on people's lives.
With a heartfelt conviction, he believes that healthcare
providers have a sacred responsibility to approach their
work with compassion and empathy, dedicated to
providing the highest level of care for their patients.
This unwavering commitment to the well-being of
others serves as a guiding principle for aspiring
healthcare professionals, inspiring them to consider
healthcare as a meaningful and rewarding field.
Kerry emphasizes the importance of focusing on the
task at hand, striving for excellence in every aspect of
their work. For the same, he annotates, "If that resonates
with you, then maybe healthcare is the field for you. Focus
on the job in front of you, excel and pursue excellence. That
pursuit of excellence will be noticed and you will grow and
develop because of your commitment to excellence in all
that you do.”
He believes that this pursuit of excellence will not only
be recognized but also lead to personal growth and
development. With Kerry as a role model, the pursuit of
excellence becomes an essential virtue for those
aspiring to make a difference in the lives of others
through their work in the healthcare industry.
to the diverse needs of their communities. By
prioritizing this expansion and transformation, Kerry
showcases remarkable leadership in steering Adventist
Health towards a future that embraces innovation and
excellence in ambulatory healthcare services.
He says, "We are paying attention to the inpatient side of
the equation, but right now our emphasis is on how we
expand, grow and develop our ambulatory footprint.”
Focus on the job in front
of you, excel and pursue
excellence.
17.
18. Surprising Things
Successful Leaders
DoDifferently
Successful leadership is not just about making decisions or
managing a team; it's about inspiring and motivating others
to achieve their best potential. While there are many well-
known traits of successful leaders, such as vision,
communication skills, and adaptability, there are also some
surprising things that set them apart from the rest. In this
article, we will explore these unexpected qualities and
behaviors that successful leaders often exhibit.
Embracing Failure
One surprising thing that successful leaders do differently is
their attitude towards failure. Instead of fearing it, they
embrace it as a valuable learning experience. They
understand that failure is an inevitable part of growth and
innovation. By viewing failure as a stepping stone to
success, they encourage their teams to take calculated risks,
pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
Prioritizing Self-Care
Successful leaders recognize the importance of self-care in
maintaining their physical and mental well-being. They
understand that leading effectively requires energy and
resilience. They make time for exercise, meditation, and
other self-care practices that help them stay focused, reduce
stress, and recharge their batteries.
Fostering a Culture of Inclusivity
Inclusive leadership is a surprising trait of successful
leaders. They actively promote diversity and inclusivity
within their organizations, recognizing that diverse teams
bring a broader range of perspectives and ideas. They create
an environment where everyone feels valued and heard,
leading to higher employee satisfaction and innovation.
Being Excellent Listeners
While effective communication is often associated with
speaking and articulating ideas, successful leaders excel at
listening. They actively listen to their team members,
colleagues, and customers, seeking to understand their
perspectives and concerns. This empathetic approach helps
them make informed decisions and build stronger
relationships.
Encouraging Constructive Conflict
Many people associate conflict with negativity, but
successful leaders understand the value of constructive
conflict. They encourage open discussions and healthy
debates among team members. By doing so, they foster
creativity and innovation, as different viewpoints can lead
to better solutions.
Investing in Continuous Learning
Successful leaders never stop learning. They invest time
and resources in their personal and professional
development. They read books, attend seminars, and seek
out mentors to expand their knowledge and skillset
continually. This commitment to learning keeps them
adaptable and ahead of the curve.
They Practice Humility
Humility might not be the first trait that comes to mind
when you think of successful leaders, but it's a surprising
quality that sets them apart. They acknowledge their
September 2023 | 16 | www.insightssuccess.com
20. mistakes and limitations and give credit to their team for
their successes. This humility builds trust and respect
among their colleagues and followers.
They Embrace Change
Change is a constant in the modern business world, and
successful leaders embrace it with enthusiasm. They are not
resistant to change but actively seek opportunities for
growth and innovation. They understand that staying
stagnant can lead to obsolescence.
They Focus on the Long-term
While it's essential to manage day-to-day operations,
successful leaders keep their eyes on the long-term vision.
They are strategic thinkers who make decisions with a
focus on the future, rather than just reacting to immediate
challenges. This long-term perspective helps them navigate
uncertainties and achieve lasting success.
Effective Delegation
Successful leaders understand the importance of delegation.
They are not control freaks but instead empower their team
members by entrusting them with responsibilities.
Delegating tasks and decision-making not only lightens
their own load but also helps team members grow and
develop their skills.
Showcasing Vulnerability
Contrary to the image of an all-knowing and invulnerable
leader, successful leaders are willing to show vulnerability.
They admit when they don't have all the answers and seek
input and collaboration from their teams. This vulnerability
fosters a sense of authenticity and approachability, making
it easier for others to connect with them.
Leading by Example
Successful leaders don't just talk the talk; they walk the
walk. They set high standards for themselves and lead by
example. Whether it's arriving early, working hard, or
maintaining a positive attitude, they inspire their teams
through their actions and work ethic.
Celebrating Small Wins
While they have their sights set on long-term goals,
successful leaders also celebrate small wins along the way.
Recognizing and appreciating achievements, even minor
ones, boosts morale and motivation within their teams. It
provides positive reinforcement and encourages continued
progress.
Managing Time Wisely
Time management is a surprising skill that sets successful
leaders apart. They prioritize tasks, set clear goals, and use
tools and techniques to maximize their productivity. This
efficient use of time allows them to focus on strategic
initiatives and spend less time on trivial matters.
Seeking Feedback Constantly
Rather than waiting for annual performance reviews,
successful leaders actively seek feedback on a regular basis.
They value constructive criticism and view it as an
opportunity for growth. By continuously improving
themselves, they set a precedent for their teams to do the
same.
Building Strong Networks
Successful leaders recognize the importance of networking
both within and outside their organizations. They build and
maintain strong relationships with colleagues, industry
peers, and mentors. These networks provide valuable
insights, support, and opportunities for collaboration.
September 2023 | 18 | www.insightssuccess.com
21.
22. Mark Plitzuweit's Legacy
A Vision for Inclusive Learning
Quality education is about crafting modules that aid all students
ducation is both a fundamental right and a crucial
Enecessity. However, for certain students, thriving in
the demanding school environment can prove to be
exceptionally challenging. Edkey® Inc. is a groundbreaker
in challenging the traditional educational pattern that fails
to provide quality education to students who have a need
for a more personalized education. This innovative
educational organization takes the responsibility of
reshaping the landscape. This is accomplished through
cutting edge approaches that prioritize individual student
needs and community empowerment.
This journey, guided by a passionate leader, Mark
Plitzuweit, CEO of Edkey® Inc., has not only transformed
the organization but also left an indelible mark on the
education industry. Mark has personally experienced a lack
of engagement when it comes to the educational process.
Some students are not cut out for the traditional classroom
setup of sitting in straight rows and enduring lectures for
several months each year.
Mark simply didn't fit the mold of that kind of student. As
he progressed to undergraduate school, the sense of
boredom and disinterest in traditional classes persisted.
Mark also went through the same cycle. His grades
mirrored his attitude toward the conventional schooling
system. He chose to make a difference. He didn't want
future students to experience the same disengagement he
felt, and that's when he decided to become an educator,
starting out and specializing in working with students
facing behavioral challenges that prevented them from
attending their assigned schools.
With multiple promotions and gained experience in both
K-12 and post-secondary educational settings, the journey
allowed him to refine his vision of what engaging education
could be. Now, almost three decades later, he finds himself
in a fortunate position as the CEO of an organization where
the vision for transformative education comes to life every
day.
Let's delve into the remarkable journey of Edkey® Inc. and
the visionary leader who steered it to where it stands today.
Making a Difference
Mark's own experiences taught him the importance of
finding alternative ways to learn and engage with education
and marked the beginning of his journey into disrupting the
status quo. With a zeal for making a difference, this aspiring
leader embarked on a career to make the world a better
place.
His dedication to student centered success has led him to
being a catalyst in disrupting the educational space for
years. Edkey® Inc. operates as a 501c3 organization with a
clear mission: "Edkey® Inc. is a non-profit organization
that provides high quality educational services to a variety
of institutions, empowering fulfillment of their individual
missions. Our services promote the improved quality of
individual and family life." This mission encapsulates the
essence of Edkey® Inc.'s role as a support entity for schools
and programs, working collaboratively to enhance the
quality of education and life for individuals, families, and
the communities they serve. It's important to note that each
school and program under Edkey® Inc. also has its unique
mission and vision, further diversifying the focus of the
educational programs available. This diversity in
educational offerings is a testament to the organization's
commitment to catering to individual student needs.
Offering Quality Education
Mark decided to make an impact on the education industry
that is profound and distinctive. While traditional
educational models often adopt a top-down, one-size-fits-all
approach, he transformed an organization that now stands
apart with its student-centric philosophy. He firmly believes
that diversity in programmatic offerings is the key to
preventing students from falling through the cracks during
their educational journey.
Top 10 Inspira onal CEOs in the Industries to Watch in 2023
September 2023 | 20 | www.insightssuccess.com
24. Our mission statement is: Edkey® Inc. is a non-
profit organization that provides high-quality
educational services to a variety of institutions,
empowering fulfillment of their individual
missions.
“
“
September 2023 | 22 | www.insightssuccess.com
25. By breaking away from traditional educational molds,
Edkey® Inc. reaches a more diverse student population and
diversifies instruction to meet individual needs. This
approach ensures that every student has the opportunity to
thrive, regardless of their learning style or background. Mr.
Plitzuweit commits to innovation and has set a benchmark
for the education industry, inspiring others to explore
alternative educational models. He quotes, "Imitation is the
greatest form of flattery.”
Values and Work Culture
Mr. Plitzuweit carries a unique approach to education and
that's how Edkey® Inc. stands out. The culture is driven by
a simple yet profound principle: "Always do what is best
for students." This foundational value is at the heart of
every decision and action taken by the organization. To put
this into practice, local leaders are handed autonomy,
allowing them to focus on the unique needs of their specific
communities.
Rather than imposing a traditional old-school management
approach, Mr. Plitzuweit assumes a supportive role,
empowering local leaders to connect with their
communities and tailor programs accordingly. This
decentralized approach ensures that the organization
remains responsive to the evolving needs of students,
families, and communities.
Infusing Technology with Education
With technological advancements brimming and shining
high, Mr. Plitzuweit recognizes the importance of
leveraging technological advancements for educational
benefit. However, he approaches this with a sense of
caution, understanding the potential pitfalls of overreliance
on technology. One area where technology is making a
positive impact is in early detection and intervention.
Artificial intelligence resources are used judiciously to
assist teachers in identifying and addressing achievement
gaps earlier in the learning process. This is particularly
crucial in areas like literacy, where Edkey® Inc. has begun
exploration with an innovative AI-powered start-up
program called Edsoma Reads. Edsoma Reads is committed
to instilling a quality reading culture in children while
promoting critical thinking skills.
A Vision for Cohesive Change
As a visionary leader, he foresees a need for significant
change in the education landscape, specifically establishing
a more harmonious agreement among all educational
institutions. Mr. Plitzuweit firmly believes that diversity in
educational offerings is in the best interest of students and
their families. It is acknowledged that many institutions
have yet to fully embrace this philosophy. This lack of
alignment often leaves students frustrated with limited
choices, and some end up slipping through the cracks of the
system. One pressing issue that's highlighted is the problem
of credit transferability. If an institution holds accreditation,
adheres to State and Federal standards, and a student has
already demonstrated mastery in a subject, there should be
no compelling reason to make them retake the same
coursework. Mr. Plitzuweit emphasizes that these
challenges exemplify how educational institutions,
regrettably, have not collectively prioritized the well-being
and advancement of the students they are meant to serve.
Edkey® Inc. places huge importance on the outcomes
achieved by its students. They gauge the success of their
programs based on the progress made, valuing growth over
the pursuit of perfection. This unwavering commitment is to
continually prioritize the best interests of their students.
Furthermore, Mr. Plitzuweit's strategy is that Edkey® Inc.
should remain dedicated to offering educational
opportunities that equip students for careers that may not
even exist in the present. As the future needs of the students
evolve, he pledges to adapt the strategies and approaches to
effectively meet those evolving needs. This adaptability is a
testament to his commitment toward student success. For
future leaders, Mr. Plitzuweit offers this advice: "Figure out
what you love to do and do that. It's where true happiness
lies when planning and building a business."
It's essential to nurture children with love and empathy and
understand that every individual is not the same. In the
same way, every individual deserves a chance to achieve an
education and settle in the career that suits them. Through a
non-conformist student's transformation into an educational
leader, Mark Plitzuweit has shifted Edkey® Inc. to redefine
the educational landscape, prioritizing diversity, individual
needs, and community empowerment. As the education
industry continues to evolve, Mr. Plitzuweit's vision and
Edkey® Inc. remain at the forefront, ready to embrace
change while staying true to its mission of doing what is
best for students.
September 2023 | 23 | www.insightssuccess.com
27. TheLeadership
Approaches People
IgnorebutShouldn' t
hen we think of effective leadership, certain
Wqualities and approaches often come to mind:
charisma, decisiveness, and strategic thinking.
While these traits are undoubtedly important, there are
some leadership approaches that tend to be overlooked but
can make a significant impact. In this article, we will
explore these often-ignored leadership approaches that
leaders should embrace to enhance their effectiveness and
create a positive organizational culture.
Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings
of others. It's often seen as a soft skill, but it's a powerful
tool for leaders. Leaders who practice empathy not only
build stronger relationships with their team members but
also gain valuable insights into their needs, concerns, and
motivations. By putting themselves in their employees'
shoes, leaders can make more informed decisions that
benefit both the organization and its workforce.
Empathetic leaders listen actively, validate the emotions of
their team members, and show genuine care and concern.
This approach fosters trust and loyalty, leading to higher
morale and productivity among employees.
Servant Leadership
Servant leadership is an approach where leaders prioritize
the needs of their team members over their own. Instead of
focusing solely on achieving personal goals, servant leaders
aim to serve their employees by providing the necessary
support, resources, and opportunities for growth.
This approach can have a profound impact on employee
engagement and satisfaction. When employees see that their
leaders genuinely care about their well-being and
development, they are more likely to be motivated,
committed, and loyal to the organization.
Transparency
Transparency in leadership involves open and honest
communication about the organization's goals, challenges,
and decisions. Leaders who are transparent share
information with their team members, even when the news
is not entirely positive. This approach fosters trust and
keeps employees informed and engaged.
Transparent leaders also encourage feedback and input from
their team, creating an environment where everyone's
voices are heard and valued.
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28. This not only leads to better decision-making but also
empowers employees to take ownership of their work and
contribute to the organization's success.
Inclusivity
Inclusive leadership is about creating a diverse and
equitable workplace where every individual feels valued
and included. Leaders who embrace inclusivity recognize
the unique perspectives and experiences that each team
member brings to the table.
Inclusive leaders actively seek out and celebrate diversity,
ensuring that all voices are heard and respected. This
approach not only promotes innovation and creativity but
also helps organizations attract and retain top talent.
Adaptive Leadership
In today's rapidly changing business landscape, leaders
must be adaptable and open to change. Adaptive leadership
involves the ability to adjust strategies and approaches
based on evolving circumstances and feedback.
Leaders who are willing to embrace change and encourage
experimentation create a culture of continuous
improvement. This approach enables organizations to stay
competitive and agile in a dynamic world.
Conflict Resolution
Conflict is an inevitable part of any workplace, but leaders
who excel in conflict resolution often go unnoticed. Skilled
conflict resolution involves addressing disputes and
disagreements constructively, without resorting to blame or
confrontation.
Leaders who are adept at conflict resolution create a
harmonious work environment where conflicts are seen as
opportunities for growth and learning. This approach leads
to stronger relationships among team members and a more
productive atmosphere.
Delegation
Leaders sometimes underestimate the power of effective
delegation. Delegation involves assigning tasks and
responsibilities to team members based on their strengths
and abilities. Leaders who delegate wisely empower their
team, foster skill development, and ensure that workloads
are balanced.
Effective delegation frees up a leader's time to focus on
strategic planning and higher-level responsibilities. It also
helps team members feel trusted and valued, leading to
increased job satisfaction and motivation.
Celebrating Small Wins
Leaders often focus on big achievements and milestones
while overlooking the importance of celebrating small
victories along the way. Acknowledging and celebrating
even minor successes can boost morale, motivation, and a
sense of accomplishment among team members.
Leaders who make it a habit to recognize and celebrate
small wins create a positive and supportive work
environment. This approach can lead to increased
enthusiasm, engagement, and a stronger sense of teamwork.
Long-Term Vision
While leaders may have a clear short-term vision, they
sometimes neglect the importance of articulating a long-
term vision. A long-term vision provides a sense of purpose
and direction for the organization, inspiring team members
to work towards a common goal.
Leaders who communicate a compelling long-term vision
help their team see the bigger picture and understand how
their daily efforts contribute to the organization's
overarching mission. This can lead to greater commitment
and alignment with the organization's objectives.
Resilience
Leadership can be challenging, and leaders often face
setbacks and obstacles. Resilience is the ability to bounce
back from adversity and maintain a positive outlook.
Leaders who practice resilience not only navigate
challenges effectively but also inspire their team to do the
same.
Resilient leaders set an example by staying composed under
pressure and demonstrating perseverance in the face of
adversity. This approach can foster a culture of resilience
within the organization, enabling teams to adapt and thrive
in changing circumstances.
September 2023 | 26 | www.insightssuccess.com