The new face of leadership: human-centered and agile

Leadership expectations aren’t just changing—they’re fundamentally evolving. Today's leadership is less about authority and control and more about human connection, adaptability, and openness. Across industries, these shifts aren't just management trends—they're essential to organizational success. Effective leadership gives teams direction, empowers people, and drives sustained growth.

Why modern leadership matters

“Leadership agility directly correlates with 25% higher profitability.”
McKinsey & Company – Leading Agile Transformation

·    “Companies that foster human-centered leadership see up to 30% improvement in employee engagement.”
Gallup – The Manager Experience

Where did it come from?

The concept of modern leadership began gaining momentum in the early 2000s, driven by rapid technological advances and shifts in workforce demographics. The real transformation occurred as organizations moved away from traditional hierarchical models toward more dynamic, bias-free, and responsive leadership styles. Today’s leadership approach doesn’t just manage people—it inspires them, adapts quickly, and values different perspectives.

 

At SIG, modern leadership is embedded in our culture—it's more than theory; it’s practice.

 

The benefits of human-centered, agile, bias-free leadership

Modern leadership empowers teams and promotes innovation. When effectively implemented, it leads to:

  • Increased trust and psychological safety
  • Enhanced collaboration and innovation
  • Improved adaptability to change
  • Higher morale and sustained performance

At SIG, we approach leadership as a continuous growth journey, one where curiosity and accountability shape the way forward.

 

What we currently do:
  • In 2024, over 125 leaders participated in our Transformational Leadership Program, designed to empower leaders with the mindset and tools to lead through change, drive performance, and foster a culture of trust and collaboration. The program focuses on self-awareness, strategic thinking, and the ability to inspire and engage various teams.
  • Our Reverse Mentoring initiative connects senior leaders with junior employees in purposeful mentoring relationships. Leaders gain firsthand insights into emerging trends, generational perspectives, and the evolving employee experience—helping them challenge their assumptions and lead with greater empathy, more agility, and less bias.
What’s next for leadership at SIG?

We’re already putting insights into practice. Leaders across the organization continue to engage with their teams to reflect, learn, and act. We’re expanding our training programs, enhancing our inclusion efforts, and further integrating wellbeing into our leadership practices.

 

At SIG, leadership isn’t merely a role  it’s how we build our future, every day, together.

August 28, 2025

Purpose at work

Purpose-driven work is a cornerstone of SIG's strategy and brand positioning. Employees today seek more than just jobs; they want roles that connect to meaningful goals.
July 17, 2025

How global mobility is shaping the future of work

Global mobility is more than a relocation trend — it’s a strategic lever for career development, cultural exchange, and business growth. As companies continue to expand their footprints and think beyond borders, mobility has become an increasingly important part of how we attract, develop, and retain talent.
June 19, 2025

The importance of fostering a continuous learning culture to keep employees engaged and competitive

A key to engagement. A pathway to innovation. A competitive advantage.