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Episode Description

In this first episode of a two-part series, Julia Middleton is joined by Julia Cleverdon to explore the delicate balance between task, team, and individual in leadership. Julia Cleverdon reflects on how leaders must navigate these three dimensions simultaneously, ensuring that organisational goals are met while also fostering a strong team and supporting individual growth.

She shares insights into the common pitfalls leaders face, such as over-prioritising tasks at the expense of people or focusing too much on individuals without a clear sense of direction. Through real-world examples, Julia provides practical strategies for leaders looking to strengthen their ability to balance these elements effectively.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to refine their leadership approach, offering valuable reflections on how to drive results while building a motivated and resilient team.

About the Guests

Julia Cleverdon

Julia Cleverdon is a renowned leader and campaigner, known for her dedication to responsible leadership and social change. She served as Chief Executive of Business in the Community for 20 years, working to connect business leaders with communities to drive meaningful impact. Julia has also played a pivotal role in numerous national and international initiatives focused on education, social mobility, and youth empowerment.

About the Host

Julia Middleton

Julia Middleton is the host of the Women Emerging podcast and a best-selling author of “If that’s leading, I’m in” as well as two previous books: “Leading beyond Authority” and “Cultural Intelligence”. She is deeply committed to helping people from all backgrounds to find their own approach to leading.

In 2020, Julia launched Women Emerging and in 2022 she lead an expedition of 24 women to find ‘an approach to leading that resonates with women’. She now leads expeditions with women all over the world based on 4Es methodology, discovered in the first expedition.

Prior to that, Julia was founder and, for over thirty years, Chief Executive of Common Purpose, which grew to become one of the biggest leadership development organisations in the world.
Julia is also an Ambassador for the Aurora Prize based in Armenia, on the boards of Alfanar Venture Philanthropy in the Arab World and Equality Now, which operates globally, and on the Advisory Councils of Fundacao Dom Cabral in Brazil and Synapse in Pakistan.

Born in London and brought up in New York, Julia was educated at French Lycées and graduated from the London School of Economics. She is married, with five children and lots of grandchildren.