FlashPoint's Approach to Leadership Growth and Client Impact

Adapting Leadership to Meet Today’s Challenges

Leadership is evolving in response to unprecedented workplace challenges. Economic uncertainty, rapid technological advancements, and cultural shifts are reshaping how businesses operate and how leaders guide their teams, and leadership development is more crucial than ever in helping organizations navigate these complexities. Let’s explore the trends influencing the workplace, showcase how our clients are addressing these challenges through targeted leadership programs, and share predictions for leadership needs in the year ahead.

Key Trends Shaping Leadership Today

Organizations worldwide are grappling with a turbulent business environment. A recent survey reveals that two-thirds of executives predict economic volatility for the next several years.* This outlook, coupled with rapid technological advancements—particularly AI—is forcing companies to rethink their strategies.

Executives are increasingly focused on the human side of business, aiming to enhance productivity without sacrificing employee well-being. However, only 33% of executives feel confident in their ability to manage human-machine collaboration effectively. Additionally, 54% of executives believe their business won’t survive unless they embrace AI at scale.

Employees are raising their hands, saying they need more support in upskilling and reskilling to thrive in this new environment. Yet, many feel disengaged and unsure about their future roles. The undercurrent of fear—whether it’s fear of job loss, financial insecurity, or technological displacement—can hinder productivity and innovation. Leaders must address these fears to create environments where employees feel safe to contribute fully.

Addressing Workforce Challenges Through Leadership Development

At FlashPoint, we take a unique approach to leadership development by co-creating dynamic solutions that adapt to our clients’ evolving needs. Our programs span all leadership levels—from emerging leaders to executive teams—and are tailored to the specific challenges organizations face.

Our approach is built on partnership. We bring expertise across industries while tapping into each client’s institutional knowledge to create highly customized solutions. Our programs are dynamic, evolving alongside our clients’ business needs, and focus on lasting impact through practical application and sustained learning.

Here’s how some of our clients have partnered with us to achieve transformational leadership growth:

Case Study #1: BMW’s Frontline Leader Program

BMW, a global leader in the automotive industry, sought to build leadership capabilities among their frontline leaders. Their “iLEAD” program, launched in 2019, focuses on developing leadership skills and connecting leaders to BMW’s core values.

The program includes:

•    A six-month journey with 3, two-day learning modules.
•    Group coaching and application sessions.
•    Custom 360-degree assessment
•    Digital reinforcement tools.
•    A one-day capstone on key learning outcomes.

To date, over 1,100 frontline leaders at BMW plants in South Carolina and Mexico have participated, with 100% of participants indicating the program is a great investment of their time. Participants have reported stronger trust, honesty, and improved personal performance, creating a ripple effect of culture transformation across the organization.

Case Study #2: Aviagen’s High-Potential Leadership Program

Aviagen, a global leader in poultry genetics, partnered with FlashPoint to retain key talent and improve promotion readiness. Their “Aspire” program targets future leaders through a rigorous, application-based process.

Key components of the program:

•    A 10-month series of instructor-led sessions.
•    Individual and group coaching.
•    Pre- and post-360-degree assessments.
•    Business-focused group projects.
•    Mentorship opportunities.

The program has achieved a 9.67/10 likelihood to recommend score and a 4.89/5 score for the application of learned skills. Participants feel more equipped to take on leadership roles, and Aviagen has seen improved retention of high-potential leaders.

Case Study #3: Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s Executive Program

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation faced a unique challenge during a gubernatorial transition. They aimed to retain executive talent and build bench strength for future leadership needs. FlashPoint co-created an executive leadership program focused on engagement and career development.

Program highlights:

•    An eight-month instructor-led leadership journey.
•    Individual and group coaching
•     Pre- and post-360-degree assessments.
•    Capstone presentations to demonstrate learning.
•    A 39% increase in knowledge and skill gain.

This program helped executives navigate the transition successfully, ensuring continuity and stability within the organization.

Looking Ahead: Leadership Trends for the Future

As we step into the future, several trends will shape leadership development priorities:

1. Building Trusting and Equitable Environments: Trust in leadership has experienced a sharp decline in recent years. The percentage of employees who trust their employer to do the right thing dropped from an all-time high of 80% in 2022 to just 69% today.* To rebuild trust, leaders must focus on promoting inclusion and fostering transparency. Creating psychological safety is crucial to ensuring employees feel safe to share ideas and contribute.
2. Navigating Persistent Reorganizations and Flexible Work: Companies continue to reassess work structures. Leaders will need to create clarity amid ongoing change, ensuring their teams remain engaged and productive in hybrid, in-person, or fully remote settings.
3. Cultivating Accountable Cultures and Connectedness: Organizations are focusing on culture transformations. Leaders must take on roles as culture stewards, connecting employees to the company’s purpose and values while fostering human connections within teams.
4. Enhancing Employee Well-being: Well-being initiatives are more important than ever. Leaders must take a personalized approach to understanding the unique needs of each team member and prioritize psychological safety to reduce fear and increase engagement.

A Call to Action for Leaders

The role of leaders is evolving in response to economic, technological, and cultural shifts. At FlashPoint, we believe leadership development must adapt to these changes to drive lasting impact. By focusing on trust, clarity, culture, and well-being, leaders can navigate uncertainty and foster thriving, productive teams.

Our journey of leadership growth doesn’t stop here. We’re committed to continuing the conversation through webinars, resources, and client stories. Stay tuned to our events page for more upcoming webinars exploring these insights, and let’s co-create a future where leadership makes a lasting impact!

*Source: Mercer 2024 Global Risks Report

Whether you're looking to elevate your current leadership pipeline or curious about how others approach leader development, FlashPoint’s Approach to Leadership Growth: Co-Creating Dynamic Solutions for Lasting Impact provides valuable insights to help you take your organization to the next level! Watch the webinar recording or download the slides to learn how you can develop your leaders to meet today’s challenges and prepare for tomorrow’s opportunities!