What Makes a Great Executive
Over the last two years, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with some long-term clients and their executive teams.
So what makes a great executive?
They Work On The Business
Mature executives understand the difference between working in the business and working on the business.
They don’t disappear when there's a significant issue or crisis. They step in, support their team and help resolve what matters.
But they also know when to step back.
They build a team that can operate without them and, importantly, they have a plan for when they eventually exit the role.
They Empower Credible Leaders
Mature executives empower leaders who are both committed and credible.
They give those leaders the space to lead, while remaining clear about expectations and accountability.
But empowerment doesn’t mean accepting poor leadership.
When someone consistently fails to demonstrate commitment or credibility, mature executives are prepared to make changes and have the difficult conversations.
They don’t allow people issues to quietly become business issues.
They Think Three To Six Months Ahead
The best executives are already thinking about what comes next.
Where will the business be in three to six months?
What will their function need to look like?
What capabilities will be required?
They anticipate rather than react. Their thinking is future-oriented, and their planning reflects that.
They Understand Organisational Politics
Mature executives are savvy.
They aren’t political, but they understand the politics of the organisation.
They recognise that influence isn’t simply about having the right answer. It’s about understanding stakeholders, building allies and knowing how to navigate the organisation to achieve the outcomes they are responsible for.
They choose their battles carefully and invest in relationships that help move the business forward.
They Become More Influential
Ultimately, executive maturity is about moving beyond being responsible for a function.
It's about becoming a leader who influences the broader business.
That requires judgement, perspective, credibility and the confidence to step back when others need to lead.
The question isn't simply whether you're good at your executive role.
It's whether you're becoming the leader the business needs next.
If you’re interested in taking your current executive role into a more influential business leadership role, reach out and have a chat.
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