In a world where leadership is often synonymous with authority, the story of one woman’s journey as a CEO reveals the profound impact meaningful leadership can have. For the last seven years, I served as the CEO of a network of clinics in Russia, collaborating closely with one of the country’s most influential business figures, Alexey Mordashov. Our paths crossed in a high-stakes project, where I was thrust into a whirlwind that transformed not only my career but also my perspectives on leadership, motivation, and success.
### Recognition of Purpose
From the very first meeting with Mordashov, I sensed an undeniable energy, an unshakeable determination. I was brought in as a junior partner from McKinsey to strategize his entrance into the healthcare sector, and within weeks, I knew this was a pivotal moment in my life. At that time, not only was I the only woman in my role, but I was also at the intersection of significant corporate restructuring—an opportunity that felt akin to winning a lottery ticket. This sense of purpose filled the room, driving me to fulfill a vision not just for myself, but for the over 2,300 employees under my guidance and the larger medical community.
**Why it matters:** This experience taught me that leadership is deeply rooted in a sense of purpose, a driving force that goes beyond personal ambition. It ignites a collective aspiration that can resonate throughout an organization.
### A Commitment to Improvement
Every encounter with Mordashov left a lasting impression, primarily due to his relentless pursuit of excellence. After every meeting, he invariably posed a simple yet profound question: “What could we have done better?” This unwavering focus on improvement was disorienting at first; it raised questions about whether we could speak candidly and the nature of feedback itself.
Yet, this practice fostered a culture of continuous improvement—an ethos where every achievement could be overshadowed by the potential for growth. As I coordinated a significant gathering for our clinics, it was clear to me that the pressure to improve and adapt was ever-present, and this had become the DNA of our operation.
**Why it matters:** This lesson underscores the importance of creating environments where feedback is not only welcome but is a fundamental part of the dialogue. Continuous improvement is the stepping stone to relentless growth.
### The Power of Belief
Mordashov often reminded me, “I am your greatest supporter. Your success makes both of us triumph.” His faith in my abilities fundamentally reshaped the lens through which I viewed my team. I learned to adopt a mindset of believing that the people I worked with were capable of growth and success. It reoriented how I perceived their efforts; instead of anticipating failures or deficiencies, I strove to be a collaborator in their journey toward success.
**Why it matters:** This dedication to fostering belief is paramount in leadership. When leaders embrace a commitment to the mutual success of their teams, both parties thrive.
### Resilience in Repeated Efforts
One pivotal lesson emerged from Mordashov’s approach to setbacks. Rather than fixating on achieving perfection, he championed the principle of resilience—getting up to throw the dart repeatedly until it hit the mark. This philosophy was reminiscent of Olympians who rise to compete, undeterred by past attempts that missed the goal.
**Why it matters:** Success is rarely instantaneous; it often requires multiple iterations and a healthy dose of resilience. Understanding that repeated attempts can lead to mastery shifts our perception of failure from a dead end to a stepping stone.
### Building Predictable Leadership
Lastly, the importance of being perceived as a reliable leader cannot be overstated. Mordashov exemplified predictability and clarity in leadership; he articulated his expectations and the broader vision, ensuring his team understood the direction. This relentless pursuit of transparency fostered a sense of safety, easing anxieties and nurturing an environment where innovation could flourish.
**Why it matters:** Predictability in leadership creates a foundation of trust where employees feel empowered to contribute their ideas, paving the way for collaborative growth.
### Conclusion
Through my tenure with Alexey Mordashov, I gleaned insights that transcended traditional business acumen—they were lessons in humanity, trust, and purpose. As I reflect on these five lessons, I recognize the implications they hold not just for leaders, but for anyone striving to inspire and uplift those around them. What kind of leader will you choose to be?
