Leaders & Teams

Leader of 2025: Change is not a project - it is you

Stop scoping change as projects but start making new digital advancements accessible and integrate adaptability as a key leadership skill. When change has become a constant and fundamental condition of leading organisations, the ability to manage change can no longer be separated as a moment in time activity. The inherent ability of quickly and organically responding to changing conditions is not the competitive parameter that will separate successful organisations from those who will be left behind.

27 March 2025
Ditte Enevoldsen, Client Director

Article

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the mid-2020s, the role of a leader has transformed dramatically. The CBS Leadership Think Tank Report 2024 [1] underscores the necessity for leaders to embrace change not as a finite project but as an intrinsic part of their identity.

In the following I delve into the imperative for adaptability and the essential actions leaders must undertake to spearhead transformation effectively.

The Imperative for Change

The world today is characterized by unprecedented complexity and volatility. Leaders are no longer merely managers of stability but are required to navigate through constant flux. The CBS Leadership Think Tank highlights several drivers of this change, including geopolitical uncertainties, technological advancements, and societal shifts[1]. These factors necessitate a new breed of leadership that are able to create organisations that are resilient, innovative, and forward-thinking.

One of the most significant challenges leaders face is the acceleration of change. The rapid pace of technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalization, is radically transforming the business landscape.

Leaders must not only keep up with the constantly changing context but also anticipate future trends and prepare their organizations accordingly [1]. This requires a mindset that views change as an ongoing process rather than a one-time project, and adaptability as an integrated quality in leadership and organisations.

Embracing Change as a Leader

To lead effectively in this volatile context, leaders must embody change. This involves several key actions:

1

Cultivating a collective Growth Mindset:

Leaders must foster a culture of continuous learning and development within their organizations. This means encouraging employees to embrace new skills and technologies and to view challenges as opportunities for growth [1]. A growth mindset requires the leader to enable employees to immediately sense and respond to changing circumstances and to innovate continuously.

2

Building Resilience:

The ability to withstand and bounce back from adversity is crucial. This involves developing strategies to manage stress and maintain mental well-being, both for themselves and their teams [1]. Resilient leadership teams can navigate through crises with composure and guide their organizations towards recovery and growth.

3

Fostering Collaboration:

In a world where problems are increasingly complex and interconnected, collaboration is key. Leaders must engage in breaking down silos within their organizations and foster cross-functional teamwork [1]. This not only enhances problem-solving capabilities but also drives innovation by bringing diverse perspectives together.

Conclusion

The leader of 2025 must view change and adaptability not as a project but as an integral part of their behaviour. By embracing a growth mindset, building resilience, fostering and collaboration, leaders can effectively navigate the complexities of the modern world. By empowering teams, encouraging innovation, and communicating effectively, leaders can engage a constant, successful transformation and ensure the long-term success of their organizations. The future belongs to those who are willing to embrace change and lead with vision and courage.