Head and Heart: Navigating the Dichotomy of Modern Leadership with Dr. Kirstin Ferguson

Leadership NOW with Dan Pontefract

Join me in a captivating episode of "Leadership NOW" as I sit down with Dr. Kirstin Ferguson as she unveils the nuances of modern leadership. An expert with a diverse background, including roles in the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and the Royal Australian Air Force, Dr. Ferguson challenges traditional leadership models in her book, 'Head & Heart: The Art of Modern Leadership.' She advocates for a more inclusive leadership definition, emphasizing that true leadership is about influencing change beyond formal titles. Dr. Ferguson introduces a balanced model that blends intellectual and emotional intelligence, essential for today's leaders. The conversation also explores her approach to democratizing leadership, encouraging every team member to embrace their leadership potential, thereby transforming organizational cultures. Dr. Ferguson's insights inspire a rethinking of leadership, highlighting its dynamic nature in our contemporary world. Dr. Kirstin Ferguson is one of the world's most recognised leadership experts. The winner of the international Thinkers50 Distinguished Award for Leadership, she is also ranked in the top 50 thinkers in the world. Kirstin researches, writes, speaks and advises major international brands on what it means to be a modern leader, and how to build modern leadership cultures. Kirstin’s career includes three decades of senior leadership experience including a previous appointment by the Australian Prime Minister as Acting Chair and Deputy Chair of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.Kirstin was recognised as a Member of the Order of Australia in 2023 for her significant contributions to business, and gender equality. Kirstin has previously been the CEO of a global consulting firm, was a senior executive at a leading corporate law firm and spent nearly 10 years as an Officer in the Royal Australian Air Force, including at a fighter jet squadron. Kirstin’s second book, Head & Heart: The Art of Modern Leadership, debuted in the top 10 non-fiction bestseller list on release, and was named as one of the top 10 best new management books in the world in 2023. It was also awarded the Royal Society of Awards Career Book Award in 2023. Kirstin holds a PhD in leadership and culture as well as Honours degrees in Law, and also History. She is an Adjunct Professor at the QUT Business School and a Sir Winston Churchill Fellow. Visit https://www.kirstinferguson.com/meet-kirstin/ for more details.