The Future-Focused Leader

Kwela hosted a client event this past summer with the theme Human Centered Collaboration in an AI World.

For part of the session, we had Learning Circles where we facilitated simultaneous dialogue groups to tackle key questions and insights regarding AI-driven changes in organizations. I facilitated the group that focused on Leading Change in this context and here were some of the actions the participant groups identified:

  • Be present / listen to employees ‘ concerns
  • Provide time for experimentation and supportive problem-solving
  • Give permission for humanness & vulnerability
  • Focus on values
  • Support work that requires critical and creative thinking
  • Strengthen the connection to culture/values
  • Encourage more in-person experiences
  • Recognize the process of change (individual and collective)
  • Meet people where they are

What struck me was the common theme that came through – as leaders in this world of ever-advancing technology, the skills that will matter more are those that have to do with how we deal with each other as humans and how we create an environment that models and encourages creative thinking and empathy.

Sure, technology-centered skills are crucial. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, by 2030 these technological skills are projected to grow in importance more rapidly than any other skills in the next five years. The top 10 skills workers need to thrive in future jobs also include social influence, curiosity, analytical thinking, leadership, and resilience.

Similarly, a global study by the Global Alliance in Management Education found that “traditional expertise” such as technical skills and business acumen alone won’t be enough for future leaders. The study highlighted cultural intelligence, empathy, a strong sense of purpose, and a human-centered approach to leadership will be just as important for success (CEMS, 2025).

Leadership in 2030 won’t be about having the most advanced technology or having all the answers. It will be about creating environments where teams can thrive in uncertainty, harness technology responsibly, and remain deeply human-centered. The leaders who begin developing these skills today will be the ones shaping the future of our workplaces tomorrow.  What future-focused skills are on your personal development plan?

Kwela partners closely with clients to customize leadership programs based on current and emerging needs.

Laura Villacrusis, Partner
laurav@kwelaleadership.com