Ep1 – Stephen Hale, Refugee Action Chief Exec

Today’s guest is Refugee Action Chief Exec, Stephen Hale. Voted Charity Chief Executive of the Year in 2019, Stephen is greatly respected across the charity sector and has much to share on the lessons he has learned in leadership. In our conversation, we explore the effects of Covid-19, building self-confidence in leadership, how the issues raised by #BlackLivesMatter is prompting debate about diversity and inclusion within the charity sector, and the moral obligation to put the cause before your own organisation. We also discuss collaboration amongst charities, both the struggles and opportunities, along with Stephen’s own leadership strengths – and why he loves winning. Reflecting on what helps Stephen to succeed, we discuss the breadth of his experience, recognise the value of space to reflect and how his love of cycling has helped Stephen to clear his mind and clarify ideas. And why he remains hopeful. Date of Conversation - 19 June The Key Takeaways From This Episode [2:47] What’s on Stephen’s mind? [4:30] How Covid affects everything [12:15] Rebuilding self-confidence [17:19] Privilege, power and EDI in the charity sector [26:13] Cause before organisation – offering wider leadership [31:09] Stephen’s strengths as a leader [36:20] How wide experience can inform successful leadership [39:30] Creating space to reflect [44:40] Hope for the future Resources From This Episode * Refugee Action - refugee-action.org.uk * Forum for the Future - forumforthefuture.org * Samworth Foundation - samworthfoundation.org.uk * ACEVO Report - Home Truths: Undoing racism and delivering real diversity in the charity sector * Voice4England - voice4change-england.co.uk * For background on the host, Joe Jenkins, and his reasons for creating the podcast see our About OTMO page. * Follow 'On The Mind Of' on Facebook and Twitter.

Om Podcasten

Every episode we’ll delve deep to explore what is most occupying the thoughts and feelings of some of the most successful social leaders, as they attempt to lead teams, organisations and major initiatives that are changing the world. What do they dream about, what keeps them awake at night, what gets them out of bed in the morning; what are their biggest fears and ambitions for the future? What are they learning about leadership – and themselves? Where do they find the greatest cause for hope ...The program seeks to understand what of the core ingredients for great leadership - for anyone concerned about doing social good. Ultimately this is a people business – it’s all about inspiring, motivating, connecting, engaging and empowering people to change the world. Which asks much of those who choose to lead. It means juggling multiple bottomlines: worrying about meeting the needs of the people whose cause we serve AND the needs of our supporters AND the needs of our partners/allies AND all the many demands of compliance/regulation AND public/political opinion AND trying to keep raising enough cash to keep the wholeship afloat ... AND crucially, leading professional teams of incredibly committed, passionate and determined staff that often see their job as their vocation.... All of which requires in leaders, a huge amount of personal strength, confidence and resilience. But where does that come from? How much of leadership is innate, versus skills to be learned? How do you manage those crises of confidence and be kind to yourself, as well as offering the leadership those around you need most?This podcast attempts to capture and learn from the wisdom and experience of CEOs, Directors, Founders and Leaders in charities, social enterprises, politics and grassroots organisations - to share more widely, and hopefully inspire others to grow in their own leadership. There is a lot in the world that needs changing, and we need great leadership now more than ever