How Leadership Is Evolving in a Changing World: Reflections from Roberto Fernández, Former General Manager of Coca-Cola

In a LinkedIn Live with Roberto Fernández, former General Manager of Coca-Cola, one of the most urgent and relevant dynamics of today’s business world was explored: how leadership must adapt to an increasingly fluid and changing environment.

Roberto, who has reinvented himself throughout his career with various training as a coach, entrepreneurship mentor, and innovation expert, shared his vision on how companies and leaders must evolve to thrive in this new context.

The Generational Gap and Adaptation to Change

One of the central topics was the generational gap that still exists in many organizations. Despite the pandemic and the acceleration of digitalization transforming the landscape drastically, there are still people who resist change, either because they believe that old methods are still valid or because they have not managed to adapt to new market demands.

Roberto points out that, while continuous learning and the ability to adapt are essential, it is also crucial for more experienced leaders to be willing to let go of old paradigms. Rigid thinking can be a significant barrier that limits access to new opportunities or, worse yet, can cause an organization to lose valuable talent. "It’s vital to understand that the world is changing at an incredible speed, and if we don’t adapt, we can fall behind," explains Roberto.

Emerging Leadership: More Than a Role, an Attitude

In this context of constant change, a new model of leadership emerges—one that is not centered on the position or formal authority but on the ability to adapt and solve problems in an agile and flexible manner. Roberto recalls an interview he conducted with someone who had lived in extreme conditions, and when discussing leadership, the person highlighted something fundamental: "There is no single leader, there are leaders depending on the situation." In his experience, true leadership is not static; it depends on the circumstances and the ability of individuals to adapt and take the initiative at key moments.

This type of leadership has much in common with the concepts of regenerative and adaptive leadership, where flexibility, collaboration, and the ability to listen are essential. A more inclusive and less hierarchical approach is needed, where knowledge and innovation come from all team members, regardless of their age or experience.

The Future of Companies: Agility as the Key to Success

In a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environment, companies must understand that traditional leadership is no longer enough. The ability to adapt, innovate, and think agilely has become a critical asset. Roberto shares examples of companies that have recognized this reality and are leveraging new trends to remain competitive. "In the future, agility will be the key," he states.

Companies that succeed in integrating this vision into their culture will be the ones that thrive. However, not all organizations are prepared for this change. Some still operate with rigid leadership models, making them vulnerable to the disruption brought about by innovation and changes in the market.

Personal Transformation: The First Step Toward Future Leadership

Finally, Roberto makes a call to personal action. Change starts with each individual, with the willingness of each leader to question, learn, and evolve. "If you want to be a leader in the future, don’t wait for an invitation. Start by transforming yourself, seek examples that inspire you, and educate your mind for the future," he advises.

This message is crucial for anyone who wishes to thrive in this fluid and changing world: it’s not enough to wait for circumstances to change; we must take control of our own transformation.

This LinkedIn Live with Roberto Fernández reminds us that leadership is not something that comes from a position, but something that is built and nurtured constantly, especially in times of change.