Leadership Beyond Authority: Britam’s Coaching for Potential Programme Champions a New Era of Leadership

In an increasingly complex and fast-changing business environment, leadership is no longer defined by authority, expertise, or having all the answers. Instead, today’s most effective leaders are those who can inspire others, foster growth, embrace continuous learning, and create environments where people can thrive.

These themes took centre stage during the launch of Phase II of the Britam Coaching for Potential Programme, where leaders and professionals gathered for meaningful conversations on leadership, talent development, and building high-performing organisations. The event provided participants with an opportunity to reflect on the evolving role of leadership and its impact on both individual and organisational success.

Opening the discussions, Caroline Nyabok, Head of Talent and Capability at Britam, challenged participants to think critically about the kind of leaders they aspire to become. She emphasised the importance of intentionally investing in people and encouraged leaders to consider the legacy they will leave behind.

While organisations have a responsibility to create opportunities and provide resources for growth, she noted that individuals must also take ownership of their development by making the most of those opportunities. “Let’s strive to be a totally different kind of leaders,” she urged. “What kind of impact will you leave as a leader?” Her remarks set the tone for a day focused on transformational leadership and on developing people as a strategic priority.

Building on this message, Evelyne Munyoki, Director of Human Resources, underscored the importance of people-centred leadership. She challenged participants to rethink leadership through the lens of wellbeing, asking a thought-provoking question: “How do we get people to the finish line whole?”

Her message highlighted the responsibility leaders have not only to drive performance but also to create environments where people can succeed while maintaining their well-being, purpose, and authenticity. She encouraged individuals to recognise their potential and embrace opportunities for growth, emphasising that everyone has a place to shine.

The conversation also explored the critical role leadership plays in organisational success. Regional CEO Jackson Theuri noted that leadership remains one of the most important drivers of business performance. Reflecting on the purpose of leadership, he challenged participants to consider why organisations need leaders in the first place.

According to him, leadership is fundamentally about bringing out the best in people and creating conditions that enable individuals and teams to perform at their highest potential.

Further insights were shared by Group Managing Director and CEO Tom Gitogo, who observed that leadership expectations have evolved significantly in recent years. In a world characterized by rapid technological advancement, disruption, and uncertainty, leaders are no longer expected to know everything.

“You no longer have to know everything to be a leader; you have to learn,” he said.

His remarks reinforced the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and lifelong learning as essential leadership capabilities in today’s dynamic business landscape. He further echoed the timeless leadership principle that a leader is someone who knows the way, goes the way, and leads the way.

A highlight of the event was a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring Dr. Caesar Mwangi, Executive Dean of Strathmore University Business School (SBS), Maurice Matumo, CEO of CDI Africa, and Evelyne Munyoki. The panel explored what it takes to develop accountable and transformational leaders capable of navigating the challenges of modern organisations.

The discussion emphasised the transition from problem-solver to empowering leader. Rather than positioning themselves as the sole source of solutions, leaders were encouraged to create environments where others can think, innovate, and contribute meaningfully.

The panellists also highlighted the importance of collaboration, leading by example, and cultivating a culture of active listening. Participants were encouraged to inspire others through their actions, remain authentic in their leadership journeys, and develop the self-awareness necessary to lead effectively.

One of the key takeaways from the discussion was that great leadership is not about replicating others’ success but about learning from it while remaining true to one’s own values and leadership style.

Throughout the event, a recurring theme emerged: leadership is ultimately about influence rather than authority. It is about service, empowerment, and the ability to unlock the potential of others.

The launch of Phase II of the Coaching for Potential Programme reaffirmed Britam’s commitment to developing leaders who can drive both individual and organizational transformation. By investing in coaching and leadership development, the organization is nurturing a culture where people are empowered to grow, perform, and lead with purpose.

As organisations continue to navigate change and uncertainty, one lesson remains clear: sustainable success is built on leadership that prioritises people. Leaders who listen, learn, coach, and inspire others are better positioned to create resilient organisations capable of thriving in an ever-evolving world.

Ultimately, the future belongs to leaders who understand that their greatest achievement is not having all the answers but helping others discover their own.

Article by Juliet Hinga