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Robust Leadership

Robust leadership refers to a leadership approach that emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and strength in decision-making and strategic planning, particularly in the face of challenges and uncertainties.

In the last years, I have worked with the Institute for Innovation and Change Methodologies IICM on a framework directed at leading in a VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) world, combining strategy and foresight, and culture and values.

Robust Leadership

Sichereres Führen in unsicheren Zeiten (German only, for now…)

This book presents an innovative approach to future-oriented leadership that combines flexibility with stability and provides orientation in times of uncertainty. It not only defines the “what” of foresight and strategy, but anchors them in a culture of values, the “how”. With a framework based on years of experience and research, Robust Leadership provides practical exercises to reflect on and enhance your leadership skills.

Transformation Stories: How Robust Leadership Drives Real Change

Podcast Series “Transformation Stories“ (German language)

In the podcast series Transformation Stories, I’ll be joining Dr. Felix von Held to discuss future-focused leadership in today’s challenging times. We’ll not only provide an overview of what Robust Leadership entails but also dive into the specifics of the Robust Leadership framework and its practical applications.

You may also watch the video format (German language):

Prof. Dr. Jan Oliver Schwarz talking about Combining Values and Scenarios in Enabling an Organization to Transform at the WFSF Conference in Berlin 2021

Surveying Leadership Dynamics: Balancing Strategy, Values, and Culture in Changing Environments

As one of the authors of the "Robust Leadership Study: Leadership in Uncertain Times," I am pleased to present the findings of our comprehensive research, conducted in collaboration with Felix Von Held. This study, conducted in January 2023, delves into the concept of robust leadership within the complex and unpredictable VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) world.

Our study, involving nearly 500 leaders from international and German companies, examines how leadership within organizations can remain robust amidst change. We focused on four key areas: organizational strategy and foresight, and individual values and culture in leadership. The results emphasize the importance of leaders providing orientation and balancing these areas. It shows how leaders can adapt to changing business environments while upholding strong values and culture. These insights are crucial for leaders navigating their organizations in today's complex business world.

For more details, you can read the full studies in English and German:

Robust Leadership Study: Leadership in Uncertain Times (English)

Read full study

Robust Leadership Studie: Sicheres Führen in Unsicheren Zeiten (German)

Read full study

Revolutionizing Organizational Strategy with Scenario Planning and Business Wargaming

In this video, I delve into the intricacies of integrating scenario planning and business wargaming into organizational strategies. I explore the concept of open strategy and its importance in making strategic planning more participative and transparent. Additionally, I discuss the significant role of corporate culture in shaping and influencing scenario planning. Join me as I share my expertise and experiences in transforming how organizations approach foresight and strategic decision-making.

Prof. Dr. Jan Oliver Schwarz talking about Combining Values and Scenarios in Enabling an Organization to Transform at the WFSF Conference in Berlin 2021

In summary, robust leadership is about building a resilient, adaptable, and ethically grounded organizational culture, equipped to handle the dynamics of a rapidly changing business environment.