Positive obligations

Jun 18 2008 The Journal

Leadership and talent attraction are increasingly important issues for the North East, so there has never been a better time to celebrate the contribution of those people who are playing a positive role in the region. But what does it mean to be influential?

And what responsibilities does it bring? We spoke to some of those featured in today’s list of 500 names to hear their views

Whether you find them in the classroom, the boardroom, the battleground or on the football pitch, it is difficult to define exactly what it is that makes a great leader.

History is, of course, decorated with examples of those who extol the qualities of great leadership.

And whether it be Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela or even Tony Blair, the unmistakable ability to influence those around them is a key marque of them all.

Understanding the responsibilities that influence brings is also important, however, according to James Ramsbotham, chief executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce.

"Whenever asked to comment on anything I am very aware of the responsibility to give the right answer – though I still tend to say what I think anyway," he explained.

"I also believe very strongly that any position of influence means that you must provide leadership and direction. My strongest desire is to see the North East achieve its full potential.

I believe that I have a duty to realistically talk the region up.

People who talk the region down are doing irreparable damage.

"This is as important for the external audience as it is for the people living and working here. We need strong self-belief and high morale and we need leadership at all levels, even mine, to deliver that sense of purpose."

Sarah Green, regional director of the CBI said it was a "real privilege" to be in a position of influence in the region - but it was important to use that influence positively.

"I think it is all our responsibilities to spread the passion that we feel for the region far and wide," she said.

"In my dealing with national agencies, politicians and other businesses, I aim to celebrate the success of North East business, provide a strong voice in policymaking to create the environment for it to prosper and to encourage visitors and inward investors to come and see how lucky we are.

"Whilst the North East’s strength lies in its strong identity, fantastic environment and home-grown talent, we must ensure that we also look outwards, welcome others and position ourselves successfully for national and international opportunities.

It’s our job to continue tochallenge the region to make sure we aspire for the best and don’t make do.

"Furthermore we must put in place the building blocks to ensure we are developing a future generation of great leaders.

Through initiatives such as CBI Future Leaders, a leadership programme for 40 rising stars in the North East, the CBI aims to support the next generation of influencers to understand the complex policy environment in which the region’s business operates.

"Finally, there is an obligation on us all to use our skills as broadly as possible and beyond just our jobs to support the region.

Through my involvement in social housing as a board member of Four Housing Group and my involvement in activities such as the women’s fund committee at the Community Foundation I hear about social issues that are much broader than those I face in my daily work but critically must be resolved if we want a region that delivers for all its people."

John Shipley, leader of Newcastle City Council, said being a leader in the world of politics was "more high-profile and more visibly accountable" than in business.

"My senior colleagues and I are like non-executive directors in one sense but it’s hard to resist the temptation to go into the detail rather than stick with the strategy and overview – in fact, to be honest it’s expected that we know much of the detail and can defend our decisions publicly.

"It’s a privilege to be thought of as being among the top influencers in the region and to be in a position to serve the community and have their trust.

However, it’s in partnership with others that we achieve most.

"Newcastle is the ‘regional capital’ but the future prosperity of the region depends more and more on authorities, agencies and sectors working together.

It’s the size of the cake that counts more than how it’s shared out, and leaders need to remember that."

Fiona Cruickshank, managing director and co-founder of Northumberland pharmaceuticals business The Specials Laboratory said: "Influential can translate as many things but for me it’s about leading by example, being able to inspire those around me and always getting the best out of people.

"I am a firm believer in sharing knowledge, experience and best practice and it’s something I do on a daily basis with my team.

I want each and every member of staff at Specials to believe in themselves, realise their own potential, their own ambitions and feel empowered to take control and make decisions.

"It’s really about setting a precedent for the business leaders of tomorrow to follow and constantly push the boundaries of what is possible. It’s also important, of course, to remain grounded and not get carried away with success."

Carole Beverley, chief executive of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, said she relished being able to exert a positive influence by helping the next generation of business leaders.

"For me it’s all about being able to use the contacts I have and the opportunities for networking to be able to help members of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, particularly the emerging talent, where speaking to the right people can have a tremendously positive impact on their business," she said.

"We’ve seen many examples of this over the past five years since the Forum began, which has contributed greatly to the vibrant and thriving entrepreneurial community we have in the North East."

Click here to discuss the 500 most influencial list.