How Faith Shapes Leadership: Insights from Top CEOs at SENT Summit 2024
In today's evolving business landscape, the intersection of faith and leadership offers a unique perspective on how values can shape organizational culture, employee engagement, and overall success. At the SENT Summit 2024, a panel comprising Michelle Hillaert, Dina Dwyer-Owens, Myles Harrington, and Peter Rex shared insights on how their faith influences their leadership styles and business practices. This article distills the key takeaways from their discussion.
Guiding Principles in Decision-Making
Faith as a Compass
Each panelist emphasized that faith serves as an internal compass, guiding their daily decisions and actions. They view leadership not merely as a position of authority but as a calling to serve others.
Peter Rex, founder of Rex, highlights the importance of "going all in for Christ" in business. He believes that leaders should not shy away from their faith but rather let it permeate their decision-making processes, even when facing challenges or controversies.
Dina Dwyer-Owens, former CEO of Neighborly, attributes her success to treating people with respect and dignity, principles deeply rooted in faith. She believes that when leaders embody these values, success naturally follows.
Myles Harrington, co-founder of Grant Street Group, integrates Catholic social teaching into his company's ethos by emphasizing personalism—the respect for the dignity of each individual. This approach has created a culture of humility within his organization.
Building a Values-Driven Company Culture
Operationalizing Core Values
Creating a company culture grounded in faith-based values involves more than statements; it requires actionable practices.
Dina Dwyer-Owens implemented a "Code of Values" at Neighborly, focusing on respect, integrity, customer focus, and having fun in the process. This code is not just displayed but actively practiced and reinforced through regular meetings and employee accountability.
Peter Rex has created a business culture where faith not only informs decision-making but serves as a guiding framework for creating greater transparency and resilience. His commitment to integrating faith into core business practices has allowed him to navigate complex challenges while maintaining a principled approach. This steadfastness in aligning his values with his company’s operations sets a powerful example of how faith-driven leadership can inspire both innovation and integrity in a highly competitive environment.
Hiring for Virtue
Selecting employees who align with the company's core values strengthens the organizational culture.
Myles Harrington emphasizes hiring for humility and virtue over credentials. Through an intensive interview process, his company seeks individuals who demonstrate generosity and a willingness to serve others.
Navigating Challenges in a Secular Business World
Leaders often face pressure when their faith-based values conflict with prevailing societal norms.
Peter Rex shares experiences of maintaining his stance on contentious issues like pro-life legislation and company policies during the pandemic. By remaining true to his beliefs, he sets a precedent for courage within his organization.
Handling disagreements with empathy and respect is crucial.
Dina Dwyer-Owens recounts instances where employees objected to company practices rooted in faith, such as opening meetings with prayer. By respecting their choices, she maintained an inclusive environment without compromising her values.
Personal Practices Fuel Leadership
Daily Commitment to Faith
A personal plan of life is foundational to effective leadership.
Dina Dwyer-Owens begins her day with prayer, attends daily Mass, and dedicates time to adoration and retreats. These practices provide clarity and strength, enabling her to lead with compassion and wisdom.
Peter Rex incorporates family prayer routines, including the rosary and reading scripture, aiming to foster a faith-centered home life that complements his professional life.
Myles Harrington engages in daily mental prayer and weekly Marian pilgrimages. These practices deepen his connection with God and help him to lead authentically.
Servant Leadership: Love in Action
"Love Serves" as a Leadership Ethos
The concept that "love serves" encapsulates the essence of faith-driven leadership.
Michelle Hillaert highlights this principle, emphasizing that leadership rooted in love focuses on serving others and recognizing their inherent worth.
Leaders who serve create environments where employees thrive.
Dina Dwyer-Owens views herself as a "Chief Evangelizing Officer," dedicated to uplifting others through her actions and decisions. By prioritizing the well-being of her employees, she models servant leadership.
Embracing Faith in Leadership
Integrating faith into leadership is not without its challenges, especially in a secular business environment. However, the panelists demonstrate that when leaders remain authentic to their beliefs, treat others with respect and dignity, and build company cultures grounded in core values, they not only navigate these challenges but also achieve great success.
Faith-driven leadership transforms organizations by creating environments where employees feel valued, empowered, and aligned with a greater purpose. By embracing these principles and practices, leaders can navigate the complexities of modern business while staying true to their faith, ultimately making a lasting impact on their organizations and the wider community.
Resources for Further Exploration:
Books:
Love Works: Seven Timeless Principles for Effective Leaders by Joel Manby
Personalist Philosophy: Understanding 'Person and Act' by Miguel Acosta and Adrian J. Reimers
The Rule of Saint Benedict translated by Leonard J. Doyle
