Introduction to Wingman Leadership

SEASON 1 - POST 1
Introduction to Wingman Leadership

We've all heard that we live in an ever-changing world where unpredictability is the norm. Now, as we step into 2023, the rise of generative AI is setting the stage for another monumental shift, akin to the internet revolution. So, how can leaders guide their teams through these turbulent times? I introduce you to "Wingman Leadership," a leadership style shaped by my years as a fighter pilot with the RAF and USMC, and tested over a decade in various multinational corporations across diverse industries.

From the Cockpit to the Conference Room

You might imagine that being a fighter pilot is all about adrenaline filled manoeuvres in the sky. While that's partly true, the reality is that flying involves constant adaptation, coordination with multiple entities, and making quick decisions without pausing for a committee meeting. It's like running a business, but with higher stakes and immediate consequences. And yes, you also have adversaries actively trying to ruin your day!

Beyond mastering the technical aspects of flying a multimillion-dollar jet, we were also trained in subjects like human psychology, risk management, ethics, and, importantly, leadership. What sets my time as a pilot apart from my corporate experience is the unique approach to leadership I was exposed to in the cockpit.

This leadership style has been my go-to strategy for leading teams in various sectors, from technical operations like baggage handling to customer-facing roles in travel and tourism, and even complex logistics. The training we received as pilots equipped us with tools and frameworks that are game-changers in the business world.

Why Wingman Leadership is the Future

The old-school, top-down leadership model prevalent in today's businesses is losing its effectiveness. The nature of work has evolved, and so has our understanding of human behavior since these leadership practices were first developed. While there's room for debate on their efficacy, the fact remains that traditional models are often rigid, slow to adapt, and stifle innovation. They also limit the potential of their employees. I offer an alternative: a leadership model inspired by my own experiences, which has empowered me to achieve beyond my wildest dreams.

Wingman Leadership Offers:

• Empowerment: Teams are not just executors of a strategy; they are active contributors, applying their expertise and making decisions that align with the organization's goals.

• Agility: A decentralized approach enables faster decision-making, allowing companies to adapt swiftly to challenges.

• Innovation: Greater autonomy encourages team members to think creatively, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Laying the Groundwork

In this season, we will dive deeper into the principles and practices of "Wingman Leadership." We'll explore its core tenets and provide actionable insights to help you transform your leadership style.

Join the Journey

I invite you to join me on this transformative journey. Whether you're an experienced leader, an aspiring one, or simply curious about modern leadership trends, there's a wealth of knowledge waiting for you.

Ready to redefine leadership for the future? Share your initial thoughts, experiences, or questions below. Your feedback will help shape our future discussions.