LEiR Seminar with Amanda Beable

At the University of Southampton Business School (USBS), we were delighted to welcome Amanda Beable as the newest member of our Leaders and Entrepreneurs in Residence Programme. Amanda delivered a compelling seminar titled “Leading with Purpose: Bridging Theory and Practice in Modern Leadership,” which sparked thoughtful discussion and reflection among students, staff, and industry professionals.

Amanda’s session underscored a powerful message: effective leadership is not about having all the answers. Instead, it is  about creating the conditions for others to grow, experiment, and even fail on the path to success. She encouraged leaders to embrace their limitations not as weaknesses, but as opportunities to foster collaboration and shared growth. By recognising that leadership is just one part of a broader organisational ecosystem, leaders can better support their teams in achieving strategic goals while helping individuals find their strengths and thrive in roles where they can truly add value.

Amanda also reminded us that leadership is a privilege, not an entitlement. When seen as a right, it risks becoming disconnected from the very people it aims to serve. She spoke candidly about the often unseen and thankless aspects of leadership and encouraged us all to show more appreciation for those who lead with integrity and care.

Importantly, Amanda highlighted that strong leaders empower rather than control. They trust their teams, invest in their development, and create both formal and informal opportunities for growth. Her emphasis on respectful communication reinforced the importance of dignity and empathy in leadership practice.

At USBS, Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise are central to our the core of what we do, as we actively bring together academic insight and real-world experience to create meaningful impact. Leaders like Amanda play a key role in making that happen, and we look forward to all the exciting opportunities ahead as we continue to bridge theory and practice in the pursuit of purposeful leadership.

Learn more about our Leaders and Entrepreneurs in Residence Programme here