Next-gen leadership: Leading through change and complexity
by Portia Yip, Marketing Services
Explore insights on building resilient, people-focused leaders ready for tomorrow’s challenges.
As organizations across Canada face new trends, technology, tariffs and uncertainties, leaders may find themselves at complex crossroads. From navigating unfamiliar challenges to fostering inclusive workplaces, the need for people-focused and adaptable leadership is growing.
According to Dr. Jo-Anne Clarke, dean of Continuing Studies at the University of Victoria (UVic), leaders today must manage increasing complexity, plan for generational transitions and cultivate the soft skills needed to build resilient teams.
“When leaders prioritize connection, communication and collaboration, teams become more adaptable and committed,” she says.“This builds employee loyalty which is critical in turbulent times.”
Closing the leadership gap with succession planning
For many business owners and senior leaders, succession planning has shifted from a best practice to an urgent priority. Statistics Canada reports more than one in five individuals are now close to retirement age. This departure of seasoned professionals leads to not only operational disruption, but the loss of valuable organizational knowledge and experience.
Yet, many leaders are unprepared. A study by MNP LLP found that over 64 percent of Canadian business owners have considered their exit, but few have a plan in place. One solution is proactive talent development—identifying potential leaders and investing in their leadership training and mentorship early.
“In many cases, leaders are focused on present demands and lack the time or resources to plan for leadership transitions,” shares Clarke.“Leadership programs, especially micro-certificates, can help bridge this gap.”
Short, flexible programs allow new leaders to continue working while gaining skills they can apply immediately, such as in the Fundamental Leadership Skills or the Inclusive Leadership Strategies micro-certificates from Continuing Studies at UVic.
The rise of soft skills in leadership
While technical and analytical abilities are important, the most in-demand leadership skills today fall under the umbrella of soft or “power” skills.
“Soft skills are what enable leaders to actually lead,” explains Clarke. “They build trust, resolve conflict and motivate diverse teams. Our leadership programs emphasize human-centred strategies that strengthen teams from the inside out.”
Emotional intelligence, adaptability, conflict resolution, cultural awareness and coaching are essential skills that are often underdeveloped in newly promoted managers or technical experts.
Anna Marie White, a long-time instructor with Continuing Studies at UVic, debunks common myths around soft skills and describes how these skills are universal.
Leadership can be an intimidating word, but becoming a good leader really just means becoming good at working with people. Soft skills are not just about being a better employee, they help you live a better life.”
—Anna Marie White
Leading with an adaptive mindset
As uncertainty becomes the new norm, successful leaders need to stay grounded and flexible. Resilient leadership means being adaptive and preparing for disruption instead of reacting to it. This includes fostering a learning culture where employees are encouraged to upskill, reskill and grow alongside the organization.
“Employees stay where they feel seen and supported,” describes Clarke. “How a leader responds during uncertain times sets the tone for the entire organization.”
In a time of complex transitions, leadership is more than fixing today’s hiccups, it’s about building the capacity—and leaders—to meet the changes and challenges of tomorrow.
Learn more about leadership professional development opportunities with Continuing Studies at UVic.
- Posted August 6, 2025
RELATED TOPICS: Leadership and ManagementBusiness and Career Essentials