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Think Ahead

London Business School

How can you navigate the now and be prepared for what’s next? Listen in each month as we convene a panel of London Business School thought leaders and distinguished guests to debate and discuss a hot topic in the business world and beyond. Fresh perspectives on what matters most, brought to you by Think at London Business School.

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  • 32 episodes
  • Updated Friday

Episodes32

Newest first
  • Friday · 19 min

    AI, leadership and the future of work: The ideas reshaping business

    As AI transforms decision-making, ESG faces growing scrutiny, and longer lives reshape careers, business leaders must navigate a world of accelerating change and increasing uncertainty. In this special Season 3 wrap-up, Sergei Guriev, Dean and Professor of Economics at London Business School and host of Think Ahead, reflects on the biggest ideas, debates and lessons from ten conversations with leading economists, strategists, technologists and business executives. From agentic AI and leadership under uncertainty to corporate purpose, sustainability, consumer behaviour and the future of the global economy, this episode brings together the insights that matter most for leaders preparing for what comes next. A common theme emerges throughout: while technology and disruption are changing the business landscape, human judgement, strategic clarity and continuous learning remain essential. Featuring insights from London Business School faculty and industry leaders, watch the episode to understand: Why AI is a leadership challenge as much as a technology challenge How effective leaders create clarity and make difficult trade-offs in uncertain environments Why sustainability and corporate accountability remain business priorities despite the ESG backlash How longevity, lifelong learning and changing consumer expectations are reshaping work and markets What a more fragmented global economy could mean for organisations and decision-makers For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.london.edu/think⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.london.edu/think?entry=true#subscribeScreen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/londonbschool⁠

  • June 30 · 31 min

    What leaders still get wrong about AI and how to build trust

    In a world where artificial intelligence is transforming how organisations operate, leaders face a critical challenge: how to harness AI’s speed and scale while maintaining trust, fairness and human judgement. In this episode of Think Ahead, Sergei Guriev, Professor of Economics and Dean at London Business School, is joined by Keyvan Vakili, Associate Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship and Academic Director of the Data Science and AI Initiative, and Riham Satti, co-founder and CEO of MeVitae. Together, they explore why so many organisations are still struggling to move beyond AI pilots and proofs of concept, and what it really takes to translate experimentation into meaningful impact. Drawing on both academic research and real-world experience, the conversation examines how AI is reshaping hiring and people decisions, the risks of bias in data-driven systems, and the importance of transparency, accountability and verifiability in building trustworthy AI. The episode also highlights a central tension: as automation accelerates, the value of distinctly human capabilities such as empathy, judgement and critical thinking only increases. Tune in to learn: Why organisations struggle to scale AI from pilots to adding real business value How to build trust in AI systems, from transparency to governance and accountability The risks of bias in hiring algorithms and how to mitigate them through better data and design Why human judgement, context and soft skills are becoming more valuable in the age of AI Practical guidance on whether to build AI tools in-house or partner externally Whether you are leading AI adoption, shaping organisational strategy, or navigating the future of work, this episode offers clear, evidence-based insights into how leaders can use AI responsibly while strengthening human capability and long-term value. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.london.edu/think⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.london.edu/think?entry=true#subscribeScreen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠instagram.com/londonbschool

  • May 14 · 35 min

    Can AI make better people decisions than humans?

    Decisions about who to hire, promote and reward shape organisational performance, culture and fairness. For decades, we have heavily relied on intuition. As data and AI become more embedded in the workplace, leaders face a critical question: how should evidence and human judgement work together in people decisions? Sergei Guriev, Professor of Economics and Dean of London Business School, is joined by Isabel Fernandez‑Mateo, Adecco Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship at London Business School, and Khyati Sundaram, Founder of Applied. Together, they explore how data, analytics and artificial intelligence are reshaping people management across the employee lifecycle. Drawing on academic research and real‑world experience, the conversation examines how AI is changing behaviour for both employers and candidates, and why leadership judgement, context and trust still matter more than ever. Watch the episode to understand: Why intuition‑driven people decisions often reinforce bias rather than predict performance How AI is transforming hiring and why it is creating new challenges for employers Where data improves fairness and outcomes, and where human judgement must still lead What responsible, evidence‑based people management looks like in practice For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.london.edu/think⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.london.edu/think?entry=true#subscribeScreen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠⁠⁠ ⁠ ⁠instagram.com/londonbschool

  • April 30 · 36 min

    Who’s really in charge? Human oversight in an age of autonomous AI

    As AI evolves from offering advice to taking action, organisations face a critical question: who is really in charge? To discuss, Sergei Guriev, Professor of Economics and Dean at London Business School, is joined by Dr Ekaterina Abramova, Adjunct Assistant Professor of Management Science and Operations at London Business School, and Sue Preston, Worldwide Vice President and General Manager of Advisory and Professional Services at Hewlett Packard Enterprise. Together, they explore how leaders can retain control, ensure safety and maintain trust as AI systems become more autonomous. From agentic AI and execution risk to fairness, bias and shadow AI, the conversation bridges cutting-edge academic research with real-world experience from global AI deployments. The discussion unpacks why human oversight must be meaningful, not symbolic, and how organisations can design governance, guardrails and operating models that allow AI to scale responsibly without undermining trust. Tune in to learn: · Why the shift from AI copilots to autonomous agents changes the risk profile for organisations · What meaningful human oversight really looks like when machines plan and act · How bias and fairness emerge in autonomous systems and why they must be designed for early · The organisational and cultural changes needed to deploy trustworthy AI at scale For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.london.edu/think⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.london.edu/think?entry=true#subscribeScreen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠⁠⁠ instagram.com/londonbschool

  • March 11 · 31 min

    Can your business thrive in today’s landscape?

    How can organisations stay agile as markets shift, technologies accelerate and global pressures reshape business overnight? In this episode of Think Ahead, Sergei Guriev, Professor of Economics and Dean at London Business School, speaks with Jessica Spungin, Adjunct Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship at LBS, and Suzanne Heywood, Chief Operating Officer of Exor and Executive Chair of CNH Industrial and Iveco Group. Together, they explore what strategic agility really looks like in practice. From navigating geopolitical shocks to adapting long-term plans in fast-moving environments, Jessica and Suzanne share insights from both boardrooms and classrooms on how modern organisations can respond to disruption without losing clarity or stability. Tune in to learn: Why organisations must combine long-term strategic goals with flexible, short-term actions How leaders can empower teams to act quickly through clear processes and decision rights When structural redesign becomes necessary and how to execute it without creating chaos The vital role boards play in supporting adaptability and maintaining alignment Why people in pivotal roles matter far more than reporting lines or organisational charts Whether you are leading a transformation, adapting your strategy or building an agile organisation fit for the future, this conversation offers practical guidance from two experts who have helped shape some of the world’s most resilient companies. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.london.edu/think⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.london.edu/think?entry=true#subscribeScreen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠X.com/LBS⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠⁠⁠

  • February 6 · 34 min

    How influence really works in modern leadership

    In a world defined by uncertainty, the leaders who thrive are those who understand how influence, trust and human psychology shape decision-making and team performance. In this episode of Think Ahead, Sergei Guriev, Professor of Economics and Dean at London Business School, sits down with Niro Sivanathan, Professor of Organisational Behaviour at London Business School, and Diana Torres, Senior Managing Director at Teneo, to explore how leadership is evolving in complex, high-pressure environments. Together, they examine why people seek strong direction during turbulent times, how leaders can set a compelling vision without closing off crucial feedback, and the powerful role of transparency in building trust. From managing hybrid teams to navigating crisis-driven expectations, this episode unpacks what truly drives influence in modern organisations. Tune in to learn: How uncertainty impacts the psychology of leadership and why clarity becomes essential The difference between providing direction and limiting innovation Why trust, accountability and communication now determine long-term performance Practical insights on empowering teams, shaping culture and leading through complexity Whether you are guiding an organisation through transformation or building your own leadership approach, this episode offers research-backed insights and real-world experience from two perspectives: behavioural science and frontline corporate leadership. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.london.edu/think⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.london.edu/think?entry=true#subscribeScreen⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠X.com/LBS⁠⁠⁠ ⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠⁠⁠

  • January 15 · 36 min

    Living the 100-year life: Leading and thriving in an age of longevity

    How do you thrive in a world where living to 100 could become the norm? In this episode of Think Ahead, host Sergei Guriev is joined by two leading voices shaping the future of work and retirement: - Lynda Gratton, Professor of Management Practice in Organisational Behaviour at London Business School - Andy Briggs, Group CEO of Phoenix Group, the UK’s largest long-term savings and retirement business. Together, they explore the profound impact of rising life expectancy and longer careers on individuals, organisations and society. From multi-stage lives and careers and lifelong learning to financial security, age diversity, and the urgent reality that only 1 in 7 people are saving enough for retirement, this conversation is a wake-up call for leaders everywhere. What are the opportunities and challenges posed by a multi-stage life? What strategies can we implement across all ages? Dive into this episode to learn: - Why the traditional three-stage life (education, work, retirement) no longer works - How to design a career that sustains energy, purpose and adaptability over decades - Practical strategies for renewal, resilience and flexible working - The role of business and government in tackling the longevity challenge - Why age diversity and reskilling are critical for organisational success - How technology and AI can support longer working lives Packed with actionable insights, real-world examples and global perspectives, this episode is essential listening. Whether you’re planning your own future or shaping the future of work, tune in to discover how to lead – and live – for the long haul. Lynda Gratton is Professor of Management Practice in Organisational Behaviour at London Business School. She has authored 'The 100-Year Life' with Andrew J. Scott. Her upcoming book, ‘Living the 100-Year Life’, releases in September 2026. Discover more about Lynda and her research: https://www.london.edu/faculty-and-research/faculty-profiles/g/gratton-lc. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit https://www.london.edu/think. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month: https://www.london.edu/think?entry=true#subscribeScreen. Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X.com/LBS⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  • Dec 9, 2025 · 36 min

    Currency crossroads: The dollar, the Euro, and the future of global power

    As global monetary dynamics shift, the challenge for business leaders is no longer just about managing exchange rates but about strategy, resilience, and long-term competitiveness. Hélène Rey, Lord Bagri Professor of Economics at London Business School, joins Sergei Guriev, Professor of Economics and Dean of London Business School, to explore how the erosion of the US dollar’s dominance, the Euro’s potential rise, and the rapid evolution of digital finance are reshaping international markets. This episode takes a closer look at why the dollar’s ‘exorbitant privilege’ is fading, what a Kindleberger-style gap could mean for global stability, and how technologies such as stablecoins and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) might redefine monetary leadership. Could fragmentation become the defining trend of the next decade? And what does that mean for policy, investment, and growth? Tune in and dive into: The historic role of the US Dollar and its impact on global trade and reserves The Kindleberger gap and what a multipolar currency system means for businesses The rise of digital finance and its implications for payment systems and liquidity Practical strategies for managing currency risk and building resilience In an era of geopolitical tension, energy market shifts, and technological disruption, take a forward-looking perspective on how organisations can adapt with agility, hedge effectively, and build resilience. Hélène Rey is the Lord Bagri Professor of Economics at London Business School. Discover more about Hélène and her research: https://www.london.edu/faculty-and-research/faculty-profiles/r/rey-h For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠london.edu/think⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠london.edu/think/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠X.com/LBS⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠⁠⁠⁠

  • Oct 15, 2025 · 36 min

    Regulation, reporting, and the value question: ESG in a shifting landscape

    As sustainability regulation accelerates across global markets, the real challenge for business leaders is no longer just about ticking boxes but about strategy, transparency, and long-term value creation. Professor Marcel Olbert, Assistant Professor of Accounting, and Katharina Neureiter, Co-Head of Global Sustainability at The Carlyle Group, join host Sergei Guriev, Dean of London Business School, to explore how new rules – from ESG disclosures to tax incentives – are reshaping corporate behaviour and investor expectations. This episode takes a closer look at the rise of sustainability reporting as both a regulatory requirement and a strategic tool. We examine how disclosure is evolving – from high-level programme reviews to granular, data-driven tracking – and what this means for private equity, portfolio resilience, and operational performance. The conversation also explores the tension between transparency and competitive advantage, the role of fiscal stimulus in shaping corporate responses, and the broader implications of global regulatory divergence. Rather than viewing ESG reporting as a compliance burden, could it be a lever for innovation, accountability, and investor trust? In an era of geopolitical flux and shifting market expectations, take a forward-looking perspective on how businesses can lead with clarity, adapt with agility, and create value that lasts. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠london.edu/think⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠london.edu/think/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠X.com/LBS⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠⁠⁠⁠

  • Sep 26, 2025 · 30 min

    Beyond greenwashing: How ESG became a corporate battleground

    As political backlash against the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework intensifies, the real questions facing corporate leaders are no longer about terminology or disclosure but about strategy, legitimacy, and resilience. Ioannis Ioannou, Associate Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship and Anna Lungley, Head of Sustainability Consulting at Fujitsu, join host Sergei Guriev, Professor of Economics and Dean of London Business School, to explore what the backlash reveals about deeper market failures and the evolving role of business in society. We examine how capital markets remain structurally misaligned with ecological and social realities, why many corporate commitments have proven fragile under pressure, and how sustainability has become a proxy for deeper power struggles within firms. With global standards in flux and investor expectations shifting, the conversation turns to what it means to lead through uncertainty and why silence, hesitation, or superficial rebranding may no longer be viable options. Rather than treating ESG as a compliance issue or communications challenge, this episode explores it as a systemic and strategic fault line – one that tests corporate purpose, governance, and the capacity to act with foresight in an era of disruption. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit ⁠⁠⁠london.edu/think⁠⁠⁠. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠⁠⁠london.edu/think/subscribe⁠⁠⁠. Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠X.com/LBS⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠⁠⁠

  • Jul 2, 2025 · 35 min

    think ahead: The future of AI: Regulation, geopolitics and business impact

    As AI continues to reshape the global business landscape, regulation is emerging not merely as a compliance issue, but as a strategic concern. From data governance and energy demands to talent mobility and market access, the evolving policy environment around AI is influencing where and how organisations can innovate, invest, and compete. In this episode, Michael Jacobides, Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship, is joined by Nnenna Ilomechina, currently CEO at Crownpeak, with over 25 years advising businesses through transformation with firms like AlixPartners and Accenture, for a conversation hosted by Professor of Economics and Dean of London Business School, Sergei Guriev. Together, they explore how geopolitical competition and fragmented regulatory regimes are redefining the role of business and business leaders in the age of AI. Drawing on cutting-edge research and real-world leadership experience, they discuss the strategic decisions organisations must make to navigate this complexity, build trust, and unlock long-term value. As the conversation turns to thinking ahead, they challenge leaders to move beyond the hype and focus on putting AI to work—ethically, transparently, and effectively. To read Professor Michael G Jacobides’ white paper on AI regulation, visit https://www.evolutionltd.net/post/the-political-economy-and-geopolitics-of-ai-regulation. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit ⁠⁠london.edu/think⁠⁠. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠⁠london.edu/think/subscribe⁠⁠. Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠X.com/LBS⁠⁠ ⁠⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠⁠ ⁠⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠⁠

  • May 14, 2025 · 29 min

    think ahead: AI-ready marketing: The next shift in digital marketing strategy

    The digital marketing landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, with AI, automation, and data-driven strategies redefining how brands connect with consumers. How can businesses adapt and stay ahead in this rapidly changing environment? Host, and Professor of Economics, Dean of London Business School, Sergei Guriev is joined by Xu Zhang, Assistant Professor of Marketing, and Alex Schultz, CMO & VP of Analytics at Meta, to explore the next evolution of digital marketing. Together, they break down the key strategies businesses need to embrace to become AI-ready, from leveraging predictive analytics to overcoming data fragmentation. In this episode, our guests share best practices, discuss the challenges of AI adoption, and highlight the ethical considerations of automation in marketing. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how AI-driven search, hyper personalisation, and advanced marketing measurement are reshaping the industry. Plus, we explore what the future holds—new skills, inclusive marketing, and the evolving role of AI in customer engagement. Whether you're a marketing leader, business strategist, or just curious about the next big shift in digital marketing, this episode offers a practical roadmap for navigating the AI revolution. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit ⁠london.edu/think⁠. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠london.edu/think/subscribe⁠. Follow us on social media: ⁠X.com/LBS⁠ ⁠linkedin.com/school/london-business-school⁠ ⁠facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool⁠

  • Apr 9, 2025 · 32 min

    think ahead: Leading through polarisation: Navigating divides in today's workplace

    Societal polarisation is on the rise, with political divides, environmental concerns, generational shifts, and controversial public figures shaping today’s workplace dynamics. Issues such as climate change, corporate sustainability, and healthcare innovation are becoming increasingly contentious, adding to the challenges business leaders face. How can they foster cohesion while navigating these growing tensions? Host, and Professor of Economics, Dean of London Business School, Sergei Guriev is joined by Donal Crilly, Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship, and Lorenza Brescia, Business Leader at Fagron, to explore the complexities of leading through polarisation. Together, they examine how key issues such as climate change, DEI, and generational divides are reshaping workplace culture. They also discuss the balance between shareholder expectations and social responsibility, the influence of polarising leaders on business strategy, and how shifting healthcare and sustainability priorities impact organisational decision making. In this episode, our guests share actionable strategies for managing polarisation without alienating key stakeholders. Listeners will gain insights into fostering inclusive workplace cultures, making informed leadership decisions, and navigating the trade-offs required to maintain both cohesion and competitiveness in an increasingly divided world. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit london.edu/think. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at london.edu/think/subscribe. Follow us on social media: X.com/LBS linkedin.com/school/london-business-school facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool

  • Mar 7, 2025 · 37 min

    think ahead: Unlock the power of purposeful teams: How to motivate, strengthen relationships, and drive results

    In this episode, Sergei Guriev, Dean of London Business School and Professor of Economics, delves into the key elements of building and leading purpose-driven teams. He is joined by Professor Randall S Peterson, Professor of Organisational Behaviour at London Business School, and Helen Beurier, Chief People Officer at Newton, a management consultancy. Our panellists discuss the three critical factors that experts believe are essential for a thriving team: motivation, relationships, and results. The episode also examines the benefits of fostering a culture of learning and development and how that can be a powerful motivator for employees. Other topics of this podcast include common leadership mistakes, the importance of team member belonging, and how to cultivate team dynamics that flourish over time. Whether you're managing a small group or leading an entire organisation, this episode provides actionable strategies to help transform your team into a powerhouse of collaboration, growth, and success. #leadership #team #workplaceculture #peoplemanagement #podcast

  • Feb 10, 2025 · 43 min

    think ahead: Master the art of ethical leadership: Build trust and navigate complexity

    What does it mean to be an ethical leader in today’s interconnected and diverse world? This episode explores the fundamental principles of ethical leadership, highlighting how leaders can cultivate trust, accountability, and inclusivity to create resilient, thriving organisations. Hosted by Sergei Guriev, Dean of London Business School and Professor of Economics, this episode features Elinor Flynn, Assistant Professor of Organisational Behaviour, alongside Oliver Morley CBE, an alumnus and the CEO of The Money and Pensions Service. The discussion delves into the real-world challenges leaders face and offers actionable strategies for navigating ethical dilemmas with transparency and authenticity. Listeners will discover how to establish clear ethical standards, implement effective feedback mechanisms, eliminate misaligned incentives, and embed diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into their leadership approach. Whether your goal is to build trust, lead with integrity, or make DEI a cornerstone of your organisational culture, this episode provides a practical roadmap for mastering ethical leadership in today’s complex global landscape.

  • Dec 4, 2024 · 36 min

    think ahead: Resilience through disruption and transformation

    In this episode of the think ahead podcast series, Professor Costas Markides, Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship, sits down with John Fallon, former CEO of Pearson, one of the UK’s largest educational organisations, to explore how companies can navigate the challenges of digital disruption and transformation. Together, they discuss the pivotal strategies Pearson employed to shift from traditional publishing to a digital-first education company. The conversation delves into the role of leadership in fostering resilience, the critical importance of purpose in driving organisational change, and how middle management plays a key role in translating long-term visions into actionable daily steps. They share personal insights on endurance and leadership and provide valuable teachings on how to navigate large-scale transformation, maintain financial stability, and sustain hope and purpose in the face of uncertainty. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit london.edu/think. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at london.edu/think/subscribe. Follow us on social media: X.com/LBS linkedin.com/school/london-business-school facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool

  • Nov 28, 2024 · 34 min

    think ahead: Tackling digital risks in the era of AI

    With the continual rise of digital risks from cyberattacks to misinformation, this episode of the think ahead podcast series explores the current challenges and threats to organisations as the volume and scale of disruptions continues to rise. Professor S. Alex Yang, Professor of Management Science and Operations at London Business School, host of the podcast, is joined by Gal Sadeh, Principal AI researcher at Silverforte, a computer and network security company. The two discuss the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. They explore the impact of AI on cybersecurity, the role of human error in security breaches and the steps organisations can take to ensure that they are prepared and maintain digital trust for all stakeholders. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit london.edu/think. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at london.edu/think/subscribe. Follow us on social media: twitter.com/LBS linkedin.com/school/london-business-school facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool

  • Oct 24, 2024 · 41 min

    think ahead: Eco-innovation in action: transforming business through sustainability and circular economy solutions

    Eco-innovation is reshaping industries by embedding environmental goals directly into business models that not only reduce harm but actively restore resources. This edition of the think ahead podcast series is hosted by Professor Yiannis Ioannou and explores real-world cases of eco-innovation in action. Sean Millard from The Royal Mint shares insights on transforming electronic waste into high-value metals through advanced recovery techniques, while Mark Stringer of SKOOT Eco reveals how tech-enabled carbon solutions empower individuals and companies to take climate-positive actions. Together, they consider the path from concept to scalable impact, the economics of sustainability-focused business models, and the essential role of technological innovation in making sustainability profitable. For more thought leadership and business insights from London Business School faculty and alumni, visit london.edu/think. Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at london.edu/think/subscribe. Follow us on social media: twitter.com/LBS linkedin.com/school/london-business-school facebook.com/LondonBusinessSchool