One of the great privileges of my role as Editor at COVER is that I get to speak to industry leaders on a daily basis, listening to their insights while being able to ask my questions. It is almost like being mentored by the leaders of a whole industry.
Over the years I have encountered leaders with all types of personalities and leadership styles. I have seen strong, almost forceful leaders but also silent types who lead from behind. It is clear that there is no single style that works for every person, regardless of the context. Leadership, as a skill, is deeply personal and strongly linked to the character of the person.
A man I have always held in the highest esteem once taught me that leadership skill is something you can teach a person, as long as he has the character to lead. I have found that to almost be The One Truth about successful leadership. So, what does it mean to have “the character to lead”?
“Every business, industry and our country as a whole, now needs strong, authentic leaders to take us through this period of unprecedented challenge”
In these essays, written by some of the most experienced leaders in our industry, one can glean many insights into leadership, but for me, the one thing that stood out was authenticity. Authenticity creates trust, inspires even the most dissenting voice into positive action and has the power to create unity where there is great diversity.
I would like to express my greatest appreciation to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts on leadership and for the support to put this publication together. I hope that it will contribute to the efforts of every individual working towards the mission of our great industry, that of financial certainty in the face of uncertainty.
