What makes a good leader? In today’s world where dynamics are rapidly shifting across technological, political and economic lines, that question holds very deep meaning. A leader is one that helps other across turbulent times as well as walking beside them on the good years. However, just being there is not enough. A good leader uplifts those they walk beside no matter the circumstance. They leave each room, person and place better for having been there, and they often do this at a personal or professional investment.
Once again, Business in Edmonton is honouring and hosting Leaders, a celebration of the men and women who take charge, take action, and lead. It’s not an easy thing to do, but it changes the lives of everyone around them for the better.
From a host of very deserving applications, independent judges Kristen Martin Hrabec, partner MNP LLP; Shawn Mevel, managing director, diversified and energy services, corporate client group, ATB Business; and Dennis Sheppard, dean, JR Shaw School of Business at NAIT, spent hours reviewing the men and women that were nominated for this honour. After careful deliberation, they selected this year’s 2027 Leaders.
MNP’s Hrabec says, “The characteristics of a good business leader include strategic thinking and having a clear vision, effective communication skills, integrity, adaptability and accountability.”
Giving back is also a hallmark of a good leader.
She continues, “Community giving signifies excellence in leadership, as it is not a requirement. It demonstrates the long-term thinking of a leader, demonstrates a leader’s integrity and values and builds trust in the community.”
“We are currently operating in an environment that is shaped by rapid technological changes, economic uncertainty and ever-evolving customer expectations,” Hrabec adds. “Entrepreneurship is important as it helps to introduce ways to improve productivity and maintain competitiveness and can help to identify emerging markets to enter to meet market needs.
“Corporate leadership is essential to establishing a clear vision and strategy for a company and to align people around a common goal. With the ever-changing environment we operate in, corporate leadership needs to be there to make the difficult decisions and guide change, especially around technology advances to remain competitive in the marketplace.”
She says to the 2027 Leaders, “Congratulations! Your innovation, resilience and commitment to your team, customers and communities have distinguished you as outstanding leaders. Through your entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to excellence, you have helped strengthen our economy and inspire others to do the same. We celebrate your achievements and thank you for the positive impact you continue to make throughout our community. Well done and congratulations.”
ATB’s Mevel says what makes a good leader is, “The openness to always be learning and the willingness to listen to stakeholders and incorporate what is heard in leadership.” Additionally, “Community involvement is important in a City like Edmonton because Edmonton thrives on this network of involvement and the reason that network is so strong is the quality and character of the business leaders who prioritize giving back.”
“Business or corporate entities thrive with strong leadership,” he adds, “Leaders set direction, help solve problems, work to remove obstacles and celebrate success. Strong leadership provides the stable foundation in times of uncertainty.”
“Congratulations to all the Leaders Award recipients,” Mevel concludes. “You are now recognized among a strong group of community minded business leaders. You’ve achieved this recognition through your community involvement and your corporate leadership in navigating your business environment.”
NAIT’s Sheppard says, “Good business leaders inspire a bold vision alongside a team of highly talented individuals who can lead the journey toward that vision. Edmonton is a community like no other that I have lived. Lifting one another up is at the very core of Edmonton’s DNA and is what makes it such a special place to thrive in business.”
He agrees about the importance of strong leadership, noting, “An entrepreneurial mindset across all levels of an organization allows it to adapt and pivot in the rapidly evolving business environment in which we live today. Geopolitical and technological influences play an increasing role in our highly interconnected and interdependent business ecosystem.”
His message to the 2027 Leaders is, “I am so pleased to celebrate these incredible leaders. Congratulations and thanks to all the leaders being recognized for your impact in our community and beyond!”
The Leaders will be recognized at a gala on November 6.
Click here to learn more about this year’s winners!