Being kind isn’t a leadership weakness—it’s a strategic advantage. This article explores how likeability, emotional intelligence and empathy drive innovation, retention, and trust.

In 2025, CEOs faced constant transition, adapting themselves, their teams, and organizations with greater intent. We share five insights that shaped leadership—and will guide the year ahead.

Just when it seemed that the role of energy CEO couldn’t become any more complex or demanding, it did. Macondo, Fukushima, Keystone, Iran, the Arab Spring, and the rise of unconventional plays offer only the sparest shorthand for the risks, regulatory blowback, and geopolitical uncertainties that now dominate the agenda of the energy chief executive.

Being kind isn’t a leadership weakness—it’s a strategic advantage. This article explores how likeability, emotional intelligence and empathy drive innovation, retention, and trust.

Discover leadership lessons from Women in Product 2025. Learn how integrated leaders boost impact by aligning personal and professional selves, embracing adaptability, and leading with authenticity.

We believe that a sustainable world starts from within. Deep self-reflection about who we are as humans and as leaders, as well as a commitment to action are essential for a more sustainable world. Our purpose is “Leadership for a Better World.” We help major organizations transform in a world that is calling out for action. However, long-term systemic change cannot happen without a collective change in mindset—understanding the role we all play in creating a better future. As a Firm, we are on this journey, too. You can learn about our progress in our Sustainable Impact Report, where we share our values, our vision, and our commitment to change going forward.

Harsha Jalihal, Chief People Officer of MongoDB, talks leading through change, shaping culture, and navigating growth as an HR leader.

The 2025 US Chemical Process Industries Forum brought together CEOs and senior leadership to discuss value creation across ownership structures.