Bryan Owens's Experience

My current role is Global Project Director for ProofID, a specialist provider of Identity Access Management (IAM) solutions. I began my career in technology for non-for-profit organisations, but as I increasingly shifted into business process and strategic roles, I went back to university for my MBA.  Alongside my current role in IT, I am also on the board for two non-profits, helping them form strong business foundations to long-term success.

Our company is a fast growing, mid-sized company, which means we have to be flexible with the changes involved with growth whilst providing a stable core for employees, so I thought it would be a great time to update my leadership knowledge.

During the programme, we explored in depth the elements of good leadership and political influence, which I found helpful as those do not always require the same skills. It was also helpful to explore what gets people into leadership positions vs what it takes to be a good leader.

I enjoyed revisiting leadership ideas both with the seasoned peers and academics that had a high degree of respect for the experience we brought with us. This allowed for in depth conversations and personal insights to be shared and the knowledge shared between us was really insightful. 

I have brought back a more nuanced view of my own style of leadership after completing this programme which I hope will have a positive effect. I think this newfound awareness of my leadership style will help me motivate our employees more effectively.

This programme is not simply ‘how to be a leader’, but rather ‘how you can become a better version of the leader you are.’ My most important piece of advice would be to attend with the expectation to grow and build on the skills you already have.