Mastering Strategic Risk: A Framework for Leading and Transforming Organizations

Chapter 7 The Game Changer: Stewardship—Taming the Land Grabbers, Passive Aggressors, and the Mighty Ogre

A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.

—Douglas MacArthur

The twenty-first century has raised the bar on leadership standards. These new requirements transcend the old paradigm, as it has become a strategic imperative for leaders to guide their organizations as true stewards. As the speed and complexity of commercial activities continue to intensify, organizations are required to muster a strong cadre of capable leaders—the type of leaders who will serve as formidable anchors that will enable organizations to withstand the sea of change we will continue to face in this new era.

The Coup D’état

It was a hot and humid Texas summer morning, the type of morning in which the temperature was already unbearable at 10 A.M. As Sam and his teammates made their way to a nearby hotel through the sweltering heat, they wondered why they had been summoned to this private meeting. It felt like a clandestine operation. A few minutes after gathering in a small banquet hall, they were provided an overview of the purpose of our meeting.

Justin Davies, the executive who pulled this small group together, wanted to talk strategy and pave a path forward regarding the company’s