The demand for skilled leaders is higher than ever, and the need to develop them is a top priority for organizations worldwide. Recently, we hosted an executive roundtable, bringing together industry experts to share their perspectives on developing the next generation of leaders. The discussion focused on the talent-related challenges and opportunities related to Leadership Development, particularly in this new age of AI.
The Why Behind Leadership Development
The discussion kicked off with a presentation by Allyson Carter, CARA’s SVP of Talent Management, who highlighted the growing demand for leaders and leadership development. Allyson illustrated how leadership styles have evolved from command-and-control to collaborative and people-centered approaches.
Citing research from sources like Harvard Business Review, DDI, and Korn Ferry, alongside insights from CARA’s clients, she emphasized that today’s leaders must be adaptable, purpose-driven, and people-centered. Allyson, along with our dynamic panel, underscored the importance of organizations investing in leadership development to maintain workforce engagement and to nurture future leaders who can skillfully navigate today’s complexities.
Insights from the Panel
Allyson’s presentation was followed by a panel discussion featuring leadership development experts:
- Tracy Delgado, Head of Talent Enablement at KeHE
- Danielle Dwyer, Senior Manager of Executive Development at the Walt Disney Company
- Maureen Gibbons, VP of Leadership Culture and DEI at Glanbia
- Dawn Kliniewski, Head of Learning and Talent Development and DE&I at OFI
These panelists offered a range of insights into creating impactful leadership development strategies. Among the priorities they discussed were the alignment of development programs with business objectives, alongside a multi-dimensional approach that incorporates coaching, mentoring, and on-the-job experiences. They also stressed the role of internal resources, like employee resource groups (ERGs), in fostering leadership skills and supporting diverse talent.
Key Takeaways from the Panel Discussion
- The need to clearly cascade priorities throughout the organization.
- The value of leveraging internal resources, such as employee resource groups (ERGs), for leadership development.
- The importance of providing leaders with exposure to different parts of the business.
- The importance of equipping leaders with coaching skills.
The Importance of Business Acumen and Cross-Functional Skills
An underlying message throughout the event was the necessity for leaders to develop robust business acumen and cross-functional expertise. Tracy Delgado from KeHE noted that clear communication and alignment of strategic priorities across departments are essential in empowering leaders to make decisions that drive business growth. Danielle Dwyer emphasized that in a company as expansive as Disney, leaders benefit from having a broad understanding of various divisions—from streaming and media to parks and entertainment.
Cross-functional experience helps leaders navigate complex challenges, bring fresh ideas, and share best practices across departments. Maureen Gibbons from Glanbia added her perspective on immersive programs that provide leaders with global, cross-functional exposure, helping them connect and innovate beyond their own departments. These programs don’t only prepare leaders for current challenges but also equip them with critical skills for future roles, where industry knowledge and a broad, interconnected understanding of the organization are indispensable.
Future-Focused Leadership Skills
Another key theme was preparing leaders for the rapidly evolving digital landscape, where technology and globalization continue to reshape business. Maureen highlighted the need to address digital skill gaps among senior leaders, noting how digital transformation, automation, and AI are shifting expectations for leaders. Addressing this, her organization plans to launch a targeted digital academy to upskill senior leaders. Such future-focused initiatives can help leaders make informed decisions about emerging technologies, ethical considerations, and employee well-being, areas increasingly relevant as businesses prepare for the fifth industrial revolution.
Elevating the Role of Coaching
The discussion also focused on the power of coaching to elevate leaders’ capabilities. Danielle shared Disney’s efforts to incorporate coaching across all levels of leadership to help managers effectively communicate and support pay transparency initiatives. These programs recognize that coaching is no longer exclusive to senior executives; it’s vital at every level to build agile and emotionally intelligent leaders.
A Culture of Continuous Learning and Collaboration
Closing out the event, the panelists emphasized the value of creating a culture of continuous learning and cross-functional exposure. Programs that allow leaders to work in different business units or mentor others broaden perspectives and develop agility, which are essential for leading in complex, interconnected environments. This culture also fosters stronger professional networks within the organization, providing leaders with diverse viewpoints and support systems to help them tackle challenges more effectively.
The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session where attendees gained additional insights into implementing rotational programs, succession planning, and intentional talent development. CARA is committed to advancing these discussions and supporting organizations in building the adaptable, people-centered leaders needed for a bold future. If you’re interested in joining us at a future CARA Executive Connect event, reach out here. And if you’d like to explore how we can support your organization’s leadership development efforts, connect with us today!
