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The Gentle Art of Leadership 

Have you ever wondered what makes leaders truly great? The answer may surprise you. 
  • The Gentle Art of Leadership challenges the notion that impactful leaders must be forceful, extroverted, or ego-driven. 
  • Instead, it highlights the power of humility, integrity, and unwavering commitment to their organisation’s success.
  • The book features original research and interviews with 50+ leaders from around the globe.


3D The Gentle Art of Leadership Book.pdf (2)

 Authors Donovan and Phelan get it right in "The Gentle Art of Leadership".  Humans want to be led by humans who have empathy and acknowledge and support their special contributions.



Debbie Taylor Moore

CEO and Managing Partner | The Quantum Crunch

This book challenges the tired assumptions that to have a positive impact, leaders need to drive their teams to the brink. And to back this assertion up, Donovan and Phelan have gathered a rich collection of real-world case studies and interviews that prove, supported, well-managed teams are best prepared to achieve long-term success.



Diana Kelley

Chief Information Security Officer | Protect AI, Inc.

It’s a book that shares timeless wisdom for leaders at all stages of their careers, and reminds us all that the biggest rewards will come from working towards something purposeful and bigger than ourselves.



Adam Bennett

Principal | Great Change Consulting

Brian and Dean’s ability to extract personal experiences offers the reader a genuine, easy-to-comprehend, and varied view of leadership skills for the modern leader. The timing could not be better for a book of this relevance and calibre.



Michael Piacente

Managing Partner | Hitch Partners

 It is compelling when findings have an empirical basis for their conclusions, which Brian and Dean have used to support their insights. People want to work for leaders they trust which is built over time by being respected and valued. 

Rob Goudswaard

Chair and Non-Executive Director |

If we learned anything from the global pandemic it is that a new style of leadership is required. Being the boss who demands it be done their way is not going to gain the support and collaboration of employees who are looking for greater fulfilment in their work/life. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to unleash the power of connecting with people to accomplish outstanding results.



Sarit Cohen

COO Europe and Telefonica | Amdocs

The Gentle Art of Leadership is a refreshing discussion of leadership in its many forms. At this point where geopolitical tensions are rising, their enlightened contribution builds on past experience and points to a new and more inclusive way forward at all levels of leadership. 



Peter McMullin AM

Vice-Chair of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) World Chambers Federation (WCF) |

A thought provoking read that highlights respect is earned through our words and actions, not through a job title. It is a further reminder that one of the best gifts of leadership is how you make people feel – often through the so called ‘incidental’ interactions.



Gavin Slater

Chief Executive Officer | Moula

The Gentle Art of Leadership is a great read, because Brian and Dean have combined the perfect mix of research, evidence and real stories, so you enjoy the learning.  



Fi Slaven

Director Operations/Chief Operating Officer | William Buck

 This a book full of wonderful vignettes. As I read through it, I loved experiencing the small and momentous situations that lead to insight for those interviewed, and the authors’ overlays of theory for the reader to further explore new perspectives, and opportunities for reflections. 

John Cox

Chief Technology Officer | Coles

In a world that often interprets aggressive behaviour as leadership strength and decisiveness, this book provides a refreshing view towards inclusiveness and inspirational leadership as the foundation for the success of a larger number of stakeholders.



Aveek Mukherjee

Co-founder and Managing Director | Gloplax

Brian Donovan and Dean Phelan synthesize the wisdom and experiences of their experience (and through interviews with leaders) to provide a remarkable tool to take transformative leadership to the next level. Remarkable and inspirational...again.



Yvonne Nyakana

Finance Professional & Community Advocate |

Effective mentoring is not just a skill. It’s an investment in developing others’ potential and relationships to grow and lead. I commend the distillation of valuable insights in this book to invest wisely in developing others.



John Allison

Founder, Chair and serial entrepreneur |

 Brian and Dean beautifully describe the Gentle Art of Leadership.  In a time where uncertainty and challenge to people are on the rise, the perspectives offered in the book are refreshingly relevant and powerful to any leader or those aspiring to advance their role as leaders further. 

Chris Stevens

Managing Partner | Digital Frontier Partners

Throughout this book, Brian and Dean will engage you and challenge you to be a better leader. Their advice is grounded in research, forged by experience, and recounted through anecdotes. The writing is clear and engaging. The lessons learned will be plentiful and will resonate well beyond the last page.

 



Chris Veltsos

Co-author of The Great Reboot: Succeeding in a Complex Digital World Under Attack From Systemic Risk |

This book contains many vast experiences from those who have led teams across various industries in many different countries over long periods of time. What emerges is a set of consistent themes and messages that emphasise the importance of deep interpersonal relationships, clear communication and the importance of cultivating a strong 'esprit de corps' at all levels within organisations. This makes it a valuable read!



Vish Padmanabhan

Advisor Trade & Investment - India & Middle East Regions |

 Some managers may see The Gentle Art of Leadership as counter-intuitive given the seemingly ubiquitous tales we are told about hard driving CEOs.  In fact, it provides profound insights into the most effective ways leaders can build and sustain successful companies and organisations.   

Noel Turnbull

Former Chair of Turnbull Porter Novelli, then Australia’s largest PR company |

The Gentle Art of Leadership breaks some myths of the stereotypical leader.  It allows more of us to be authentic leaders, finding our own style of leadership while reminding us of the core tenets of successful leaders.



Geoff Spicer

Group General Manager – Technology & Services | Village Roadshow Ltd

Good leaders look for capability and manage behaviours, leveraging the strengths and supporting the weaknesses “with minimal noise.” This book capitalises on the experiences of everyday leaders. It’s worth investing the time to explore the experiences covered in Brian and Dean’s excellent book.



Denis McGee

Head of Partnerships and Alliances, and Co-Founder | Gloplax Solutions

In The Gentle Art of Leadership Brian and Dean have compiled an extremely valuable range of insights into the key ingredients of outstanding leadership. This is an important and very well researched work that will greatly assist those wanting to further develop their leadership capability. I commend Brian and Dean for their efforts.



Gerry Moriarty

Retired Senior Communications Executive |

The Gentle Art of Leadership by Brian Donovan and Dean Phelan is a transformative read that resonates deeply with my own experience in leading organisations. This book masterfully debunks the myth that leadership requires a forceful, charismatic personality and instead highlights the power of empathy, humility, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of one's team. Through meticulous research and compelling real-world examples, Donovan and Phelan illustrate that the greatest leaders are those who prioritise healthy relationships.



Ellza Malok

Founder of Blue Monarch Group and International Chair at ExecHQ |

I have known Brian Donovan for over 20 years as a mentor coach and student of leadership. The Gentle Art of Leadership brings his and Dean Phelan’s knowledge and experience together whilst drawing on the experience of fellow leaders, to navigate these trying times. Their easy style makes reading the book a thought-provoking experience.



Peter Watson

Non-Executive Chair | BG&E

This book provides tangible insights into how leadership with integrity and respect are fundamental to building trust. Trust and belief are key enablers to high performing teams.  I recommend this book for anyone wanting to challenge themselves and explore how to adapt their own ‘Art of leadership.’



Chris Dowling

Head of Delivery – Data | Australia Post

The Gentle Art of Leadership is not just another leadership book – it’s a refreshing confirmation of the value of treating people with kindness and respect. It’s not just a nice thing to do; it’s the secret sauce for achieving the best results. I wish this material was taught in undergraduate programs to set people up for success in their careers. This book is a must-read for leaders who want to achieve big results. 



Professor Tony Arnel

Faculty of Science, Engineering & Built Environment | Deakin University

In The Gentle Art of Leadership, Brian Donovan and Dean Phelan make utterly clear and compelling what should be (but often isn’t) obvious: Colleagues pulling together in the same thoughtful direction can outperform a boss issuing commands from on high. It seems rather obvious, doesn’t it? All of us thinking together are smarter than any one of us thinking alone. The purpose of leadership is not exercising authority. The purpose of leadership is solving problems.



Mark Chussil

Founder | Advanced Competitive Strategies, Inc. USA

Leaders never stop learning and adapting their leadership style to changing circumstances and changing people.  This book provides practical guidance to those who aspire to become effective leaders.

 



Judith Downes

Non-executive Director and former Chief Financial Officer |

Sign me up to the gentle art of a more effective and sustainable approach to leadership every day of the week. And Dean and Brian are well placed to convey this art. Not only have they thoroughly researched the topic, but they also have each practiced this art for many years … with good effect.  



David Swain

CEO | Endeavour Foundation

Never have leaders faced the challenges that are now before them every day in the business environment. ‘The Gentle Art of Leadership’ is timely and will be a valuable resource for leaders who are looking to keep valuable and talented people to help navigate these challenges.



Jillian Carson

Non-Executive Director |

In ‘The Gentle Art of Leadership’, Phelan and Donovan get to the heart of these intangible attitudes and principles which drive our most effective leaders. These soft skills are sometimes not obvious but can definitely be learned and acquired.



Steve Drinkall

Manager – Mission Engagement | Uniting in Church in Australia, Queensland Synod

In this era of tight competition for good employees, it is vital that the leadership of the organisation maximises the wellbeing and sense of belonging of its workers. The Gentle Art of Leadership sets out a blueprint for those who want to be successful leaders and create an environment where both the organisation and its employees flourish.



Denis R Hogg AM

Chair | Tournicare Pty Ltd

Debbie Taylor Moore
Diana Kelley
Adam Bennett
Michael Piacente
Rob Goudswaard
Sarit Cohen
Peter McMullin
Gavin Slater
Fi Slaven
John Cox
Aveek Mukherjee
Yvonne Nyakana
John Allison
Chris Stevens
Chris Veltsos
Vish Padmanabhan
Noel Turnbull copy
Geoff Spicer
Denis McGee
Gerry Moriarty
Ellza Malok
Peter Watson
Chris Dowling
Tony Arnel
Mark Chussil
3D-The-Gentle-Art-of-Leadership-Book-4-4
David Swain
3D-The-Gentle-Art-of-Leadership-Book-4-4
Steve Drinkall
Denis Hogg
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Leadership Is Changing the Game:

The Transition from Technical Expert to Leader
AI and technology transformation is changing the game for businesses everywhere.
  • Businesses need game-changing leaders who can ride the wave of technology disruption.
  • Learn how technical experts can transition into outstanding people leaders.
  • Discover how to develop your leadership influence and be the leader people want to follow.

 

What People Are Saying

A big "thumbs up" to a really smart book, practical and insightful, thoughtful in its approach to a transformational leadership model. I have books I read then pass on and I have books that I never lend. This book falls into the latter category and ultimately rises to its own version of a consultant. Well done, Brian, and thank you!

Yvonne Nyakana

Finance Professional & Community Advocate |

Brian’s book, 'Leadership is Changing the Game,' brings to life the principles of his vast leadership and coaching experience in an accessible and applicable manner and represents a must read for any leader in today’s high paced and fast changing environment.



Liam Fraser

Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing | Buildxact

 I have worked with Brian to develop my leadership capabilities and his approach has helped me achieve some significant ‘game changing’ results.  This book captures all the principles and practices that I’ve used myself.  Having these laid out in the book provides a great reference to continually use and refine.  



Geoff Spicer

Group General Manager | Technology & Services, Village Roadshow Ltd

Brian helped me make brave decisions to embark on my big life changes. He asks all the right questions and his years of experience and buckets of wisdom are reflected in this great book. It will help you to work out how to map your own journey, to get there and also to identify how to make a success of your career when it reaches its next destination. Read it!

 

Kathryn Watt

Non-Executive Director and Parish Priest |

Leadership is Changing the Game, presents a useful conceptual model for developing leadership potential and ability and provides a wide range of supportive references to credible research and other relevant thought leaders. It includes a valuable and inspirational compilation of actual experiences drawn from Brian’s personal career and especially from his successful coaching and team leadership practice.



Gerry Moriarty AM

Retired Senior Communications Executive |

 I worked through Brian's executive coaching program and it certainly changed my leadership game. It's great to see the material we covered brought to life in this book. I value the learnings from our work together and particularly the confidence I gained to be the best version of me, so I can now happily take a seat at any leadership table. 

 

Fi Slaven

Director Operations/Chief Operating Officer | William Buck

The experience I got as I read was like sitting down and having a personal discussion on leadership in general. Many of the book's ideas spoke to how I have actually built on real-world experiences to develop the ecosystem that educates people globally on proper security practices. Having a great team of cybersecurity professionals behind me and a culture that helps build on that ecosystem has helped develop that vision.


Ken Muir

President, Board of Directors | Who's Who in Cybersecurity

If you are a technology leader who wants to help your company succeed in today’s highly competitive marketplace, you need to read Leadership is Changing the Game. It will help you understand how leadership is developed and implemented to change the game and improve the competitive position of your company. If you do apply the insights from this book, you will find that you will be highly sought after by businesses as they scramble for strategic leadership. So, don’t wait, read the book, and change the game!



Phil Weinzimer

Author of The Strategic CIO: Changing the Dynamics of The Business Enterprise |

This book is gold. As you read it, you will inevitably identify with some of the stories and wisdom. You will find yourself reflecting on your own life and career, and getting excited as you glimpse possibilities for playing a much bigger game than the current path you see yourself on. 

Dean Phelan

Board Adviser, CEO Mentor and Executive Coach | Uplift Centre

Let yourself be captivated by the thoughts, the practical propositions and ... the metaphor of the “Big Kahuna” proposed by Brian Donovan, an expert in game-changing leadership and digital transformation. You will enjoy discovering and reading "Leadership is Changing the Game”. It will benefit you to shift your mindset, influence others and invent new ways of doing business.

 

Prof. Yves Pigneur

Author with Alex Osterwalder of the international bestseller "Business Model Generation” |

Brian’s passion for helping me play a bigger game involved me writing a vision for an amazing future - ‘an even bigger game plan’.  I recently reflected back on that big game plan and thanks to Brian’s support and inspiration, I found the courage to start my own business. Five years on, in the digital strategy work that my firm does, the pivotal success factor is the role that technology leaders play to bring their company’s digital strategy to life.  Brian’s book is a compelling read for technology leaders who want to lead a digital strategy to a successful outcome and change the game for their organisations.



Chris Stevens

Managing Partner | Digital Frontier Partners

I was initially sceptical about the value that coaching could provide when I was first offered the opportunity to work with Brian. I had never done anything like it before. However, the outcome for me was priceless.

It helped me to grow both personally and professionally. I knew how to produce results on my own. But it was a huge breakthrough for me to step up my leadership and get much bigger results through people. Brian helped me build my leadership influence so that I could impact the big strategic challenges that our business faces.

This book is full of the practical insights and stories that Brian brought to our work together. It serves as a reminder to me to continue to play a big game. If you are a leader looking for the satisfaction of making a big difference then let this brilliant book guide you.

Sarit Cohen

COO Europe and Telefonica | Amdocs

Brian's book is a must read for both business and technology leaders and those with leadership aspirations. He captures the issues and challenges facing leaders in today's ever changing, competitive and disruptive environment. He graphically illustrates the need for collaboration from the Board level strategy, to technical execution and a well-orchestrated change program. The underlying theme being that talent needs to be prepared for leadership with the mentorship of the Board and C-suite executives.  Brian neatly shows how individuals in leadership must have a plan, not be afraid to ask for help, and communicate often and broadly.



Denis McGee

Head of Partnerships and Alliances, and Co-Founder | Gloplax Solutions

This book provides sound and well-tested advice on how to make the transitions from making decisions about technology, to decisions about people, to decisions about the future of your organization. If you apply this book’s Influence Curve to your career, it will guide you on how to refocus your decision making as your audience and scope change.



Prof. Rick Watson

Research Director | Digital Frontier Partners

Both technology leaders and the businesses they serve need the wisdom offered by Brian in his new book. Technology leaders for the seasoning and polish needed to move from excelling at what they do into helping others excel at what they do. Businesses can benefit from knowing how to develop and leverage the technology leaders in their midst, that they so desperately need now and into the future.



Dr James Stikeleather

Director, Doctor of Healthcare Administration Program | Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine

Yvonne Nyakana
Liam Fraser
Geoff Spicer
Kathryn Watt
Gerry Moriarty
Fi Slaven
Ken Muir
Phil Weinzimer
Dean Phelan
Yves Pigneur
Chris Stevens
Sarit Cohen
Denis McGee
Rick Watson
James Stikeleather