The power of women and men in leadership roles
Photo courtesy of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute
Ican remember the discussion like it was yesterday: A male governor and female lieutenant governor going toe-to-toe over a public policy issue. Both shared compelling but different perspectives directly and convincingly. Their insights were deeply rooted in distinctive life experiences—a businessman, husband and father and a former legislator, wife and mother. Eventually, an informed decision emerged as the yin and yang of opposite but connected forces combined for the betterment of Utah.
I’ve often watched this model of female and male deliberation during my professional career. In every case, combining male and female perspectives yields a better outcome. One view without the other misses vital information. If leaders want to serve everyone in society, leaders must include all of society. Women in leadership represent a critical ingredient to society’s success.
Powerful women, powerful ideals
Consider the many incredible, professional women in this community. I have had the honor to work closely with many of them—Katy Welkie, CEO of Primary Children’s Hospital; Vicki Varela, managing director of the Utah Office of Tourism; Rachel Hayes, dean of the David Eccles School of Business; Susan Madsen, founder and director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project; current and former elected officials like Deidre Henderson, Erin Mendenhall, Jenny Wilson, Shireen Ghorbani, Pat Jones and Olene Walker; and many more. These and other women make or have made extraordinary contributions to the success of this state.
Photo courtesy of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute
"The magic of diversity in leadership roles is that it enables multiple strengths to be present at the same time. I’m all for the virtues of efficiency, competition, risk-taking, innovation, decisiveness and other critical competencies, but not without proper balance. We need the strengths of all people in the corner office, at the board room table and in elected positions. I fear we don’t benefit enough from the powerful leadership dynamic of men and women leading together."
And it’s not simply because they are women; it’s because they possess and project unique life experiences. We need these life experiences represented in leadership roles. Life experiences that foster compassion, fairness, unity, stewardship, civility and cooperation are of particular interest. These ideals are badly needed in society, and women possess these virtues in droves.
Don’t get me wrong. Men possess these virtues as well. I’ve worked closely with two great men—former Utah governor Mike Leavitt and former Utah Senate president and Salt Lake Chamber CEO Lane Beattie—who exemplify these virtues. However, I find that these and other relationship virtues are more common in women. Society will be better if we find ways to elevate these virtues.
Seeds of success
The magic of diversity in leadership roles is that it enables multiple strengths to be present at the same time. I’m all for the virtues of efficiency, competition, risk-taking, innovation, decisiveness and other critical competencies, but not without proper balance. We need the strengths of all people in the corner office, at the board room table and in elected positions. I fear we don’t benefit enough from the powerful leadership dynamic of men and women leading together.
Photo courtesy of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute
The male and female leadership dynamic I witnessed during my state service served Utah exceptionally well. It led to one of the longest sustained periods of economic expansion in state history. The leadership planted seeds together that Utah still benefits from today.
Next time you decide who to hire, promote, vote for or partner with, consider the mix of virtues needed to truly prosper. Seek a greater balance of leadership virtues in leadership roles. Recognize the value of the life experiences and proclivities of women. Reflect upon how badly we need stewardship, collaboration, fairness, unity and cooperation. Imagine the power of fully representing half of humanity in how we navigate change, unify behind a noble goal and motivate and inspire action.
To all the women in the world, we need you in leadership. Don’t shy away from the challenge. To all the men in the world, elevate the stature of the women around you. They have the talent to improve lives and change the world. 
