Sustainable business model innovation requires the integration of youthful leadership into strategic roles. Canada’s leading newspaper “The Globe and Mail” picks up on the St. Gallen Symposium’s joint research with the BCG Henderson Institute.

Embracing New Perspectives

Younger generations play a crucial role in leadership, not just for representation but as a strategic necessity for businesses facing complex challenges. Often sidelined in decision-making, youthful leadership brings vital innovation and risk-taking abilities, essential in today’s fast-paced technological and societal landscape.

Fostering Intergenerational Leadership

Picking up on our research insights published in Harvard Business Review and Fortune, Martin Reeves, Chairman of the BCG Henderson Institute, recommends five strategies: consultation, co-leadership, and both vertical and horizontal separation, along with leadership substitution. These methods not only highlight the strengths of young leaders but also promote a culture of ongoing learning and adaptation.

Innovating Leadership through Diversity

The highlighted insights suggest a shift from traditional hierarchies to inclusive models that respect contributions from all generations. Adopting co-leadership allows businesses to combine the experience of veteran leaders with the fresh perspectives of younger ones, forging a leadership team that drives sustainable growth and resilience.

This approach to leadership, recognising the synergy between generational knowledge, is essential for companies facing economic, technological, and environmental changes. Embracing intergenerational leadership becomes not just a strategic decision but a necessity for those committed to innovation, sustainability, and enduring success.

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Author: Harvey Schachter