In the first Kienbaum Brave Leadership Session entitled Success is more important than fear – How digital transformation succeeds through courageous leadership, everything revolved around exactly this aspect: How can managers shape the path to a successful future through courage in a world full of uncertainties? The discussions by Dr. Christoph Bauer (DuMont), Stephanie Wölfel (Ernsting ́s Family) and Oliver Schlodder (ista) and the findings of the event showed that the key to success lies in responsible and at the same time courageous leadership. 

Brave Leadership Session: How Digital Transformation Succeeds with Courageous Leadership 

In today’s world, shaped by rapid technological advancements, uncertainty, and the pressure for digital transformation, bold leadership is more essential than ever. The Brave Leadership Session showcased key insights and themes on how leaders can successfully lead organizations through digital transformation with courage and responsibility.

The Context of Digital Transformation 

Businesses face significant pressure due to rapid technological changes. To keep up, they need not only innovation but also bold and value-oriented leadership. The constant state of flux requires leaders to create visions for the future while being courageous in navigating risks.

What does Brave Leadership mean? 

Brave leadership is about daring to break patterns, making responsible decisions, and courageously taking calculated risks. In this context, courage is not about fearlessness, but about making informed decisions that involve some level of risk but promise great rewards. These leaders inspire teams and create new opportunities while embracing uncertainty.

A Leadership Gap 

During the session, data from participants revealed a gap between the desire for courageous leadership and its actual practice. For example, while 72% of respondents believed courage was one of their most important leadership values, only 18% felt their leaders displayed it consistently. This gap suggests a need to better integrate bravery into everyday leadership practices. 

Openness as a Foundation for Transformation 

A key component of brave leadership is openness—whether to new ideas, technological advancements, or transformative initiatives. Openness is critical, particularly in navigating digital transformations that involve AI, automation, and other new technologies. Leaders must perceive these changes not as threats but as opportunities for growth. 

The Role of Technology 

Brave leaders use technology not just as a tool but as a transformative force. The integration of new technologies, such as AI and data analytics, should be viewed as a means to enhance decision-making and enable innovation. The session emphasized how technology serves as a foundation for business models that promote innovation and efficiency. 

Transformation Demands More Than Strategy 

While having a solid strategy is crucial, it alone is not enough. Transformation requires a culture that encourages responsible risk-taking and is willing to make bold decisions. The session revealed that organizations often have the strategy but lack the bravery to execute the necessary actions. Leaders need to instill confidence in their teams, encourage openness, and foster a culture that can adapt to change. 

Summing up: Courage as a Key to Success 

The Brave Leadership Session demonstrated that courage is indispensable for digital transformation. Companies that want to thrive in the future must ensure their leaders have the bravery to embrace risk, openness, and new technologies. By fostering a culture of innovation and resilience, organizations can navigate uncertainty and succeed in today’s complex world. 

For more insights sign up for the next Brave Leadership session November 7th (GER) to follow conversations with Felicitas von Kyaw (CHRD, Vodafone), Katharina Hopp (Beirätin, Robert Bosch), Dr. Alexander von Preen (CEO, INTERSPORT), Michael Kümpfel (Vorstand Marketing, Sales & Customer, MEWA Textil-Service SE) and Tilman Au (CEO, diva-e Digital Value Excellence GmbH).