“It’s lonely at the top” is not an expression for no reason; it’s a feeling that many executives, myself included, share worldwide. 30% of executives reported that they always or often feel lonely, according to research by Deloitte. This emotion is especially relevant when a company is going through a period of explosive growth – something I can significantly attest to from my experience with PQE Group.
Over the past 25 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with incredibly talented and diverse individuals worldwide, and it’s their skill and dedication that have solidified PQE Group as a trusted industry leader. Despite having so many extraordinary people on our team, being the CEO and Founder can be very isolating. Participatory governance is invaluable for any organization as it encourages collaboration, diverse perspectives, and a sense of ownership among team members. Our team at PQE Group thrives for many reasons, but one of the main aspects is our diverse and open communication, which fuels our innovative solutions.
Our team has always done an exceptional job of emphasizing autonomy and cooperative relationships. I have always made it a priority to listen to those closest to me to ensure that all voices are heard and that decisions are made with a well-rounded perspective. However, at the end of the day, as CEO, I must make the final call. It’s the leader’s responsibility to weigh all input, consider the broader vision, and guide the enterprise forward.
I recognize my responsibility to steer our expanding international team with clarity and purpose. One of the reasons that we at PQE Group have been able to establish ourselves as industry leaders is our collective focus on maintaining transparency and catering to the different needs and capabilities of those on our team and the communities we serve. It is my care and compassion for all of these people and the greater welfare of our planet that propels me to make the most advantageous and equitable decisions for all – although it is impossible to please everyone.
Leading at the top comes with emotional and psychological challenges that few can understand. The weight of decision-making and responsibility can be intense, but I feel incredibly fortunate to lead a team of creative visionaries who make my journey easier. Their brilliance and support lighten the load, allowing us to navigate the complexities together. Our multifaceted skills enable us to combine a rich tapestry of abilities that fosters invention and problem-solving.
Despite it being accurate that “heavy is the head that wears the crown,” our PQE Group team has created a collaborative synergy that has elevated us to unprecedented levels of achievement. While so many things have changed over the years, PQE Group’s dedication to people, communities, and advancing Life Sciences has not.
The outside world rarely sees the grueling days of hard work and commitment that came before any success or the painstaking choices made to get there. I encourage other executives who may be feeling down in the isolation of leadership to break out of this mindset by nurturing strong relationships with peers, mentors, and trusted advisors who understand your challenges. Just like I do at PQE Group, regularly seeking feedback and involving leadership teams and close confidants in decision-making can also create a sense of shared responsibility and confidence. Most importantly, prioritizing self-care and mental well-being is second to none!
