It’s lonely at the top. All eyes are on you while you shoulder the immense responsibility and decision-making of being a leader. Having a consigliere on your side helps you navigate the increasingly public role of leader.
You may have pressures to balance short-term gains (or survival!) with your long-term vision; need to maintain (or change) your company culture while driving growth; respond to the constant demand to innovate and adapt in a swiftly evolving market; and handle the delicate task of managing diverse stakeholders’ expectations. All with the inherent solitude of making high-stakes decisions, sometimes despite what those around you think.
With so many people and decisions reliant on you and your input, who do you turn to in times of need?
CEOs often require a dependable and external (but fully briefed) advisor capable of providing fast, independent guidance, support, and a fresh perspective. This individual, commonly called a consigliere, plays a pivotal role in the triumph of a company and its leader.
In this blog post, we delve into the role of a consigliere, the advantages they bring to CEOs and leaders, and how they can aid in shaping the future of a business.
The Role of Your Consigliere
Rooted initially in mafia circles, a consigliere is simply an adviser or counsellor to the leader or boss.
For three decades, I have held this role for leaders, wannabe leaders and politicians in the U.K. and multiple other countries.
I would be your trusted external-but-internal advisor. You can talk openly to me – because your agenda is my agenda. Your success is my success. I depend on you being successful.
This role encompasses my experience as a mentor, coach and “personal non-executive director”. My experience leading a small industrial group and supporting leaders of startups and much larger companies means that I can help you respond rather than react – and do it in a way and with the words that minimise damage and maximise success.
As a strategic executive leadership coach, I am easily accessible by phone, WhatsApp or in person for thinking, exploring “crazy ideas”, and crisis handling, or simply venting. You may wish me to support members of your SLT or Board.
My foremost role is simple. I have your back. On your side and in your corner, but with the blunt honesty of a trusted outsider, to offer the sounding board, executive coaching, and support you cannot find from someone on your payroll. You probably have enough “Yes” people already.
Benefits of a Consigliere
Sounding Board: I serve as your sounding board to discuss concepts, obstacles, and opportunities. I can help you think more clearly, make better decisions and see things from all perspectives. This kind of support can significantly affect how well you lead your company.
Personal Development: You’re never too old to enhance your leadership skills. Whether it’s storytelling or public speaking, it’s my job to push you and enhance your ability to inspire and engage your teams, communicate with a wide range of stakeholders, foster trust, and navigate choppy corporate waters.
Adaptability: I recognise the importance of adaptability and flexibility and the massive demands on your time. I fit in with you – we can meet online or in person, at your place or my central London location, evenings or weekends. I am there to make you a better leader and make the process as convenient as possible.
Adviser Confidentiality: The foundation of trust and confidentiality is essential in our CEO-consigliere relationship. Leaders share their pain, struggles, thoughts, and ideas in the strictest confidence with me. NDA is my default. You can think out loud and talk with me without editing.
Support in Challenging Times: In moments of crisis or uncertainty, I am primed (almost 24/7) to offer vital support and counsel. No matter what emergency you’re hit with, I’m on hand. You are not 9-5; neither am I.
Leaders Crafting the Future
As the increasingly volatile business landscape evolves, with market conditions changing and stakeholders becoming even more demanding (and often, understandably, anxious), the consigliere assumes greater significance in aiding CEOs like you to navigate the diverse challenges and opportunities that are part of your every day.
Whether it’s helping you become a better leader, helping you handle difficult situations, helping you tell your story (internally or externally) or sharing your vision – as your right hand man, I’m here for whatever you need.
Feel this could be what you need? Book a call with me; you set the agenda, and we can see if we click.
