In this article, the Dean of Western University’s Ivey Business School offers reflections on what business leaders should do as AI embeds itself in our day-to-day working lives. This article offers timeless advice because it is about how businesses should adapt in the face of technological change. Externally, leaders have a strategic imperative to create and maintain a distinctive value proposition in the face of strong AI-enabled forces for convergence. .....more

In today’s fast-changing world, traditional ways of making strategic decisions aren’t effectively meeting demands. This article introduces a more flexible approach: Emergent decision-making. This approach is built around six practical leadership stances that are all anchored by a clear, grounded mindset. When leaders and their teams learn to shift between these stances, they build the “response-ability” needed to navigate real-time challenges.

Donald Trump’s return to power has ushered in a new era of unpredictable trade policy, with sudden tariffs and political drama shaking up long-standing rules. With no clear long-term plan, US trade decisions now swing rapidly, using volatility as leverage against allies like Canada and Mexico. In response, Canadian leaders are encouraged to stay calm, use quiet diplomacy, and prepare for ongoing disruption. By treating this challenge as a chance to .....more

Trust in institutions like government, media, and universities is at an all-time low, leading to social division and the rise of prominent leaders who are seen as “authentic,” even if they are deeply flawed. As traditional sources of moral guidance fade, younger people increasingly look to the workplace for moral leadership. In this climate, leaders must earn trust by being consistent, honest, empathetic, and accountable. Trust is the foundation of .....more

In this question-and-answer session, Ivey Business Journal editor-in-chief Thomas Watson speaks with Gerard Seijts and Kimberley Young Milani about their book, <i>Character: What Contemporary Leaders Can Teach Us About Building a More Just, Prosperous, and Sustainable Future</i>. The authors explain how a lack of strong character is a major reason for today’s global leadership crisis. While many leaders have the right skills and experience, .....more

Many CEOs rely on informal updates—like emails or presentations—rather than submitting structured, written reports to their boards. This often leads to a lack of transparency, missed performance issues, and weaker board oversight. In contrast, a well-prepared CEO report can improve clarity, strengthen accountability, and support more effective, evidence-based decision-making at the board level. By integrating consistent metrics, clear variances, and .....more

Companies can’t reach corporate net zero, but with new approaches to carbon markets, they can get the planet there.

As generative AI (GenAI) reshapes consumer behaviour, brands must evolve as consumers increasingly turn to AI advisors for purchase decisions. Companies must ensure transparency, protect consumer data, and optimize content for AI discovery to maintain relevance and credibility. Leading brands are already using AI to simplify decision-making, reduce friction, and strengthen loyalty. Personalization is key—consumers expect AI to recognize their preferences .....more

Hiring and promotion decisions often focus more on skills than character, even though character is essential for building a strong workplace culture. Many leaders overlook character, neglect personal growth, or don’t know how to include character in their leadership practices. This can lead to issues that even the most skilled teams struggle to overcome.<br><br>The good news is these challenges can be addressed productively. By committing .....more

Since 2022, the Teaching Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Professional Development Workshop at the Academy of Management Conference has explored innovative approaches to DEIB instruction while offering educators support and community. This article offers highlights from the teaching demos (featuring in-person exercises) and Q&A panel at the August 2024 workshop. In the first demo, the instructor led participants through a gamified .....more