Naomi Birdthistle, MBA Director, Griffith University
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the need for responsible leadership has never been more critical. Responsible leadership involves managing a corporation’s societal interactions to address stakeholder concerns and enhance economic, social, and environmental performance. It requires a dedication to ethical conduct, accountability, and a long-term vision that prioritises the welfare of all stakeholders, including employees, customers, communities, and the environment. Responsible leaders are those who, therefore, prioritise ethical behaviour, sustainability, and the well-being of all stakeholders. As the Director of Griffith University’s MBA program, I recognise the critical importance of equipping future business leaders with the skills and mindset required for responsible leadership in today’s dynamic and complex environment.
Why do we need responsible leaders?
Recent history has shown us the devastating consequences of irresponsible leadership, underscoring the importance of integrity and accountability in guiding organisations. Take, for instance, the infamous Enron scandal. Once a titan in the energy sector, Enron’s top executives engaged in widespread accounting fraud to hide debt and inflate profits. This deceitful behaviour led to the company’s spectacular collapse, resulting in massive job losses and a significant erosion of public trust in corporate governance. Similarly, the downfall of Theranos, a health technology company, is a stark reminder of the perils of deceptive leadership. Founder Elizabeth Holmes misled investors and the public about the capabilities of her company’s blood-testing technology, leading to criminal charges and substantial financial losses. These examples underscore the importance of responsible leadership in fostering ethical behaviour, transparency, and accountability within organisations. They also highlight the far-reaching consequences of irresponsible leadership, not only for the companies involved but also for their employees, customers, and society at large.
In contrast, responsible leaders like Rose Marcario, former CEO of Patagonia, demonstrate the power of ethical decision-making. Under her leadership, Patagonia committed to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, setting a benchmark for other companies to follow. Sara Menker, Founder and CEO of Gro Intelligence, offers another example of responsible leadership. Menker’s company uses data to predict global food and agriculture markets, addressing the pressing issue of resource scarcity. Her innovative approach highlights the role of responsible leadership in ensuring food security for future generations.
“Responsible leadership is far more than a mere buzzword; it is a vital element of achieving sustainable business success.”
Characteristics of a responsible leader:
Integrity and accountability: Responsible leaders embody honesty and uphold strong moral principles in all their actions. They take full responsibility for their decisions and behaviours, ensuring that transparency and fairness are at the forefront of all their dealings. Acting with integrity means that responsible leaders are truthful and open, even when it is difficult. They communicate honestly with their stakeholders, providing clear and accurate information. This transparency builds trust and fosters a culture of openness within the organisation. Reflecting on her current MBA experience, Claudia Haenel says that ‘trust in colleagues, the courage to make long-term decisions, and the discipline to persevere have been pivotal leadership traits honed through my Griffith MBA experience. These values embody service and leadership for the betterment of society.’
Moreover, responsible leaders are committed to fairness. They strive to treat all stakeholders equitably, making decisions that are just and impartial. This involves considering the impacts of their actions on various groups and ensuring that no one is unfairly disadvantaged. Kerryn Dillon (Griffith University MBA class of 2020) found that ‘learning to be a responsible leader develops the ability to think long-term, make decisions that consider the well-being of all stakeholders, and lead with integrity even when faced with complexity or pressure. It also strengthens the ability to build trust, inspire people, and drive positive change, which are increasingly critical skills in a world where businesses and institutions are being held to higher standards of accountability and purpose. It’s also essential as organisations, rather than governments, emerge as significant drivers of change.’
Taking responsibility also means being accountable for their actions. Responsible leaders do not shy away from admitting mistakes or addressing issues. Instead, they confront challenges head-on and work to rectify any wrongs. This accountability demonstrates their commitment to ethical behaviour and reinforces their credibility. By acting with honesty, upholding moral principles, and ensuring transparency and fairness, responsible leaders create a positive and ethical organisational culture. This approach not only enhances the reputation of the organisation but also contributes to its long-term success and sustainability.
Sustainability: Prioritising long-term benefits over short-term gains is a defining characteristic of responsible leadership. This approach involves making decisions that not only ensure immediate success but also promote environmental sustainability and social equity for future generations. Looking back, Gilbert Guaring (Griffith University MBA class of 2022) reflects, ‘even with years of leadership experience under my belt, I realised much of my earlier training had never accounted for sustainability. I had been mentoring young, driven marketers using frameworks that were disconnected from the systems thinking and sustainable strategies we urgently need today. That’s been the biggest shift in my career since the MBA: ensuring every business, marketing, or communications strategy I touch now begins with sustainability at the core—not as an add-on, but as a foundation.’
Responsible leaders understand that short-term gains can often come at the expense of long-term stability and well-being. Therefore, they focus on strategies that foster enduring growth and positive impact. This means investing in sustainable practices that minimise environmental harm and promote the conservation of natural resources. By doing so, they help to protect the planet for future generations and contribute to the fight against climate change. In addition to environmental considerations, responsible leaders also prioritise social equity. They strive to create inclusive and fair opportunities for all stakeholders, ensuring that their decisions benefit a diverse range of individuals and communities. This involves promoting diversity and inclusion within their organisations, supporting fair labour practices, and engaging in community development initiatives. Since completing her MBA with distinction, Kerryn Dillon has taken on several board positions where she can contribute strategic oversight, ethical governance, and values-driven leadership to causes that align closely with her mission to serve and strengthen communities. She assists other organisations to be better equipped to navigate future challenges, which emulates the characteristics of a responsible leader.
Courage and ethical decision-making: Responsible leaders possess the courage to uphold what is right, even when faced with challenges and opposition. They are guided by their core values and a commitment to the greater good, making ethical decisions that reflect these principles. Learning about responsible leadership, Kerryn says, ‘the greatest benefit is that it shifts leadership away from a narrow focus on short-term success or individual achievement in a contained environment toward a broader commitment to ethical, sustainable, and inclusive impact.’
This moral fortitude enables responsible leaders to navigate difficult situations with integrity and resilience. By standing firm in their convictions, responsible leaders inspire trust and respect among their stakeholders. They understand that true leadership involves not just achieving success but doing so in a manner that is just and honourable. This means prioritising transparency, fairness, and accountability in all their actions. Moreover, responsible leaders recognise the broader impact of their decisions on society and the environment. They strive to create positive change, ensuring that their actions contribute to the well-being of their employees, customers, communities, and the planet. This holistic approach to leadership fosters a culture of ethical behaviour and long-term sustainability, ultimately benefiting both the organisation and the wider community.
Stakeholder inclusion: Engaging with and listening to all stakeholders is essential for responsible leadership. By actively seeking input from a diverse range of groups, responsible leaders ensure that their decisions are well-informed and considerate of various perspectives. This inclusive approach not only helps in addressing the needs and concerns of different stakeholders but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration. By valuing the voices of employees, customers, communities, and other relevant parties, responsible leaders can make decisions that contribute to the overall well-being and sustainability of the broader community. This commitment to inclusivity and dialogue ultimately strengthens the trust and support between the corporation and its stakeholders, leading to more resilient and successful outcomes.
Continuous learning and adaptability: The business environment is in a state of constant flux, requiring responsible leaders to remain informed and adaptable. To navigate this ever-changing landscape, they must continuously seek new knowledge and skills, ensuring they stay ahead of the curve. The Griffith MBA program contributes to continuous learning by fostering a mindset of adaptability, critical thinking, and lifelong skill development, and ensures graduates emerge as well-rounded leaders. Gilbert echoes this in that he sees responsible leadership not as a destination but an ongoing journey—one that requires curiosity, continuous learning, humility, and the ability to lead with resilience and purpose. The Griffith MBA played a pivotal role in shaping his perspective, reinforcing the importance of values-based leadership. It also emphasised for him that business decisions are never made in isolation and must be grounded in sustainability, integrity, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. This experience encouraged him to reflect on the kind of future being shaped—not just for shareholders, but for teams, communities, future generations, and the planet. Striving for this kind of leadership remains a daily commitment for him.
Responsible leaders also focus on developing their emotional intelligence and leadership capabilities. They recognise the importance of effective communication, empathy, and collaboration in driving organisational success. By honing these skills, they can better support their teams and build strong, cohesive work environments. Kerryn found that the Griffith University MBA program profoundly changed how she approached her career. She said the MBA program made her understand that leadership goes beyond simply meeting goals – it’s about the approach one takes and the influence one has on those around you. She became far more deliberate in cultivating trust, promoting inclusivity, and making choices that prioritise lasting impact over immediate success.
“The Griffith University MBA program underscores the importance of sustainability, ethical leadership, and real impact, offering a comprehensive framework for cultivating responsible leaders who can effect positive change within their organisations and beyond.”
The Griffith University MBA program: A commitment to responsible leadership
As we navigate the complexities of the modern business world, the Griffith University MBA program stands out for its emphasis on cultivating responsible leaders. By integrating sustainability and ethical leadership into its curriculum, Griffith University equips future leaders with the tools to drive positive change and foster a more just and sustainable world. So, how is this done?
Sustainability at the core
At Griffith University, sustainability is not an isolated subject but a fundamental principle woven into the fabric of the MBA program. Courses such as “Accounting for Accountability” and “Strategy for Purpose” ensure that students understand the importance of sustainable practices in all business functions. Gilbert found that the Griffith MBA’s strong emphasis on responsible leadership, sustainable business practices, and a global outlook truly shaped his perspective—and one can see that ethos embedded across every course. As he notes, ‘I still remember my first day in ‘Sustainability and Systems Thinking.’ It wasn’t just theory—it was a wake-up call. The course pushed us to explore key sustainability models, challenge conventional business logic, and think critically about long-term impact.’ The holistic approach of the Griffith University MBA program equips graduates with the tools to drive positive change and promote sustainability in their professional roles, and Claudia Haenel agrees, ‘Central to the Griffith MBA is its unwavering focus on sustainability; the very reason I chose the world’s number one Griffith MBA program. Without a planet, people and profit cannot thrive. Through understanding the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, my service and values-based, authentic leadership approach have been fortified.’
Ethical leadership and social responsibility
The Griffith University MBA emphasises the development of ethical leaders who are committed to social responsibility. Students are encouraged to reflect on their values and how they can align their professional actions with these principles, as Claudia underlines, ‘The Griffith MBA has empowered me to lead with accountability, integrity, and ethical decision-making, values that align with my commitment to building a sustainable legacy for future generations.’ This focus on ethical leadership is reinforced through case studies, real-world projects, and interactions with industry leaders who exemplify responsible business practices.
“At Griffith University, sustainability is not an isolated subject but a fundamental principle woven into the fabric of the MBA program.”
Real Impact and applications
Griffith University MBA graduates are making significant contributions to their organisations and industries by applying the principles of responsible leadership. For example, Kerryn has found her MBA to be instrumental in shaping both her leadership style and her broader professional outlook, ‘The Griffith MBA inspired me to lead with vision, to think and act with a long-term, holistic perspective, and to approach leadership as stewardship — of people, resources, and trust. It also equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and frameworks needed to navigate the increasing complexity of the health and aged care sectors with agility and confidence.’ Gilbert echoes these values, ‘learning to be a responsible leader means preparing to lead in the 21st century—with purpose, awareness, and accountability. It’s about acting meaningfully in the world around you, striving for the well-being of people and planet, and understanding that money is a tool, not the ultimate goal. That shift in mindset is what makes leadership truly future-fit.’
Is responsible leadership the future of MBAs?
Responsible leadership is far more than a mere buzzword; it is a vital element of achieving sustainable business success. The Griffith University MBA program underscores the importance of sustainability, ethical leadership, and real impact, offering a comprehensive framework for cultivating responsible leaders who can effect positive change within their organisations and beyond. In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, companies face unprecedented challenges that demand innovative and ethical solutions.
The principles of responsible leadership are crucial in navigating these complexities and creating a better future for all stakeholders. By embracing these principles, Griffith University MBA graduates are exceptionally prepared to lead with integrity, make ethical decisions, and champion sustainability in every facet of their work. The program’s focus on sustainability ensures that graduates understand the importance of environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Ethical leadership training equips them with the skills to navigate moral dilemmas and uphold strong values. Real-world impact projects provide practical experience in applying these principles to drive meaningful change. This commitment to responsible leadership not only enhances the success and reputation of their organisations but also contributes to the broader goal of fostering a more just and sustainable world.
Griffith University MBA graduates are thus empowered to lead with a vision that prioritises long-term benefits over short-term gains, ensuring that their professional endeavours positively impact society and the environment.
Biography
Professor Naomi Birdthistle is the director of the MBA at Griffith University.
