The nature of leadership is undergoing a profound transformation. Rapid advances in digital technologies, the rise of artificial
intelligence, global business integration, and evolving workforce expectations are redefining what it means to lead successfully. Today's leaders are expected not only to deliver business results but also to inspire innovation, nurture talent, and build resilient
organisations capable of thriving amid constant change.
In this exclusive interview, Narendra Kumar, Sr. President - Operations at Balakrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT), shares his
perspectives on the changing face of leadership. Drawing on over four decades of experience in manufacturing and operations, he discusses how leaders can navigate digital transformation, manage diverse and multi-generational teams, foster responsible innovation, and prepare organisations for the future of work. His insights highlight the importance of combining technological understanding with empathy, adaptability, and a strong people-first approach to leadership.
How is the definition of leadership changing as organisations become more technology-driven and globally connected?
NK Over the past four decades, the definition of leadership has undergone a significant transformation, driven by technological advancement, globalisation, and changing workforce expectations. Broadly, this evolution can be viewed in three distinct phases. The first phase was characterised by instruction-driven leadership, where knowledge was transferred through a buddy system, and leaders primarily directed employees on what to do. This was followed by the training-driven, command-and-control model, where organisations focused on standardisation, compliance, and operational discipline. The emergence of quality systems and structured management practices reinforced this leadership approach across many industries.
Today, however, organisations are rapidly transitioning to a third phase- one that emphasises talent identification, continuous...
