StepUp Summer 2024 Thought Piece: Moral Strategic Leadership – Where Vision & Action Unite

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With the onset of summer comes a welcomed slowdown of pace with holidays, but also excitement of reuniting with colleagues and making new ones with the kickoff of conference season. As professionals prepare to reunite, network and learn, StepUp has taken a few moments to reflect on conferences and political assemblies past.

The 78th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations took place in New York from September 19 – 26, 2023.  Amidst the myriad of speeches, negotiations, and enthusiastic discussions, emerged one pivotal speech that spoke to the concept of moral strategic leadership, from the Honourable Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados. Her address summoned not just a call to action but an insightful affirmation of moral responsibility, strategically woven into the fabric of global climate initiatives. Her speech provided a roadmap for a more equitable and sustainable future.

Prime Minister Mottley’s speech was not merely a repetition of statistics and policy; it was a genuine declaration rooted in empathy and compassion. She articulated the urgent need for collective action with a moral compass guiding every decision. Moral strategic leadership, as expressed in her speech, transcends conventional notions of power and authority. It entails a steadfast commitment to principles of justice, fairness, and inclusivity, even in the face of complex geopolitical challenges.

But what exactly is moral strategic leadership? Prime Minister Mottley explains that it is the merging of ethical principles with strategic vision and implementation. It involves making decisions that not only serve short-term interests but also defend fundamental values and address long-term sustainability. It prioritizes the well-being of all stakeholders, including future generations, over self-interests by navigating uncertainty with integrity, transparency, and a deep sense of accountability.

Moral strategic leadership also fosters innovation and creativity by embracing diverse perspectives and challenging conventional wisdom. It empowers voices that have been traditionally silenced or marginalized, and leaves no one behind. In the energy space, where issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are paramount, moral strategic leadership can serve as a catalyst for transformative change.

At StepUp, our mission is to advance women in the energy management sector to leadership and Board positions through building awareness and providing transformative tools to individuals, organizations, and partners. Prime Minister’s Mottley’s speech resonated with us, and we have identified five tips on how you can  leverage moral strategic leadership to StepUp in your energy management leadership and Board journey.

Tip #1 – Promote Inclusive Decision-Making
Ensure diverse representation in decision-making processes, valuing perspectives from all stakeholders, including marginalized communities and Indigenous peoples.

Tip #2 – Invest in Education and Training
Foster a culture of continuous learning and development, providing opportunities for underrepresented groups to thrive in the energy industry through scholarships, mentorship programs, and vocational training.

Tip #3 – Empower Local Communities
Prioritize community-led initiatives and decentralized energy solutions that empower local communities, create economic development opportunities, and enhance resilience to climate impacts.

Tip # 4 – Accountability
Be accountable for your actions by advocating for transparent reporting mechanisms and adherence to ethical standards in energy production and consumption.

Tip #5 – Lead by Example
Demonstrate commitment to DEI principles within your organization, from recruitment and hiring practices to procurement and supplier diversity initiatives.

Prime Minister Mottley concluded her 2023 address with a quote by Nelson Mandela which we will share again as we conclude this thought piece:

“Action without vision is only passing time. Vision without action is merely day dreaming, but vision with action can change the world”. 

As you reflect on the summer and conference season, we encourage you to take a moment, and watch her inspiring speech, and heed her call for current and future leaders to strive to build a future that is not only sustainable but also just and inclusive for all. 

Want to learn more about moral strategic leadership? Here are a few resources to consider as you continue your learning journey. 

 

References: 

United Nations. (2023, September 22). Honourable Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados addresses the 78th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations [Video]. You Tube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftHsJscUARU 

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