The Challenge of GBS Leadership

GBS Leaders often face complex transformation programs, balancing top-line and bottom-line contributions while engaging teams and creating value. This “mission impossible” resonates well with peers in the field. Confidence, empathy, inspiration, and a track record of excellent delivery are key traits of the best GBS leaders. Books, no doubt, play a pivotal role in shaping these leaders. Below are Maciej’s top recommendations.

1. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman (2011)

Concept: This challenging book combines economics, psychology, and decision-making insights. Written by a Nobel laureate, it’s a game-changer for understanding decision-making processes.

Application for GBS Leaders:

• Reveals the power of data in driving organizational decisions and change.
• Provides psychological and scientific insights to manage teams effectively.

2. First, Break All the Rules by Marcus Buckingham & Curt Coffman (1999)

Concept: This book emphasizes the importance of understanding and leading people by focusing on their individual motivations, capabilities, and communication styles.

Application for GBS Leaders:

• Introduces a modern approach to job descriptions aligned with outcomes and performance.
• Offers tools for customizing leadership approaches for each team member.
• Addresses challenges like quiet quitting, low engagement, and high attrition.

3. No Rules Rules by Reed Hastings & Erin Meyer (2020)

Concept: Written by Netflix’s former CEO, this book showcases how breaking traditional norms led to one of the biggest business success stories, offering valuable lessons for GBS leaders.

Application for GBS Leaders:

• Inspires a leapfrogging approach to transformation, bypassing traditional phases.
• Encourages integration with business outcomes rather than focusing solely on SLAs.
• Highlights the importance of creating global, relevant, and timely solutions.