Watch the Leadership in 2026 webinar recording
Senior leaders are entering a period of intense complexity. Economic uncertainty, rapid technological disruption, workforce change and the rise of AI are reshaping how organisations operate. These pressures are also redefining what effective leadership in 2026 will require.
To support leaders preparing for 2026, Stephenson Mansell Group hosted a live masterclass exploring the leadership capabilities that will matter most. The session brought together Senior Partner Mehul Joshi and three of our experienced executive coaches and mentors: Robyn Stubbs, Charles Weiser and Amanda Bickerstaff.
The full 45-minute webinar is now available to watch on demand.
About the webinar
The conversation examined the real challenges leaders are facing as they look ahead to 2026. It drew on SMG’s multi-year leadership capability data, coaching assignments from across Australia, and leading global research. The discussion focused on what leaders need to stay effective, trusted and focused in times of change.
Throughout the session, our panel shared practical examples from their work with senior executives and boards. Their insights highlight the behaviours that help leaders create clarity, build trust and navigate rapid change.
Key themes explored
The webinar explored three capabilities that are appearing consistently in our work and across SMG’s data.
Strategic clarity
Leaders need to filter noise, interpret complexity and stay focused on what truly matters. Strategic thinking and sense-making across multiple horizons are now essential to guiding organisations through uncertainty.
Digital confidence
Technology, AI and data continue to influence business decisions. Leaders do not need to be technical experts. They do, however, need curiosity and confidence in digital concepts. They also need to model a mindset of learning and adaptation.
Empathy and connection
As pressure, pace and ambiguity increase, the human side of leadership becomes more important. Empathy, authenticity and emotional intelligence play a critical role in trust, stability and performance. Leaders who maintain strong connections with people navigate change more effectively.
Additional themes explored in the session included calm resilience, integrity, curiosity and the ability to lead through rapid transformation.
Questions about leadership in 2026 answered
Leadership expectations are changing quickly, and many leaders are looking for practical guidance as they prepare for 2026. The questions below cover the themes explored in the webinar and the broader capability work SMG is undertaking.
1. What is the Leadership in 2026 webinar about?
The webinar explores the leadership capabilities senior leaders will need to navigate 2026. It focuses on three core themes: strategic clarity, digital confidence and empathy and connection. The discussion draws on SMG’s leadership capability data, coaching conversations across Australia and insights from global research.
2. Who should watch this webinar?
The session is relevant for senior executives, emerging leaders, HR and talent professionals, board members and anyone shaping leadership development priorities for 2026.
3. Why are these leadership capabilities important for 2026?
Leaders are facing more volatility, shifting workforce expectations and rapid digital and AI change. These capabilities help leaders stay focused, make informed decisions, build trust and guide teams through uncertainty.
4. Does the webinar require any technical knowledge about AI?
No. The conversation explores how AI is influencing leadership expectations but does not require technical expertise. The emphasis is on building confidence, curiosity and comfort with digital concepts.
5. What does “strategic clarity” mean in this context?
Strategic clarity is the ability to filter noise, interpret complex environments and stay focused on what matters. Leaders need to think across multiple horizons, guide teams through ambiguity and adjust direction as conditions shift.
6. What is meant by “digital confidence”?
Digital confidence refers to a leader’s comfort with technology, AI and data. It is not about being a specialist. Instead, it is about curiosity, basic understanding and the mindset needed to support digital change.
7. Why is empathy so important for leaders in 2026?
Empathy, authenticity and emotional intelligence help leaders build trust and connection, especially during change. These capabilities improve communication, decision-making and team stability, and they play a key role in retaining talent.
8. Will all seven leadership capabilities be explored further?
Yes. The webinar looked at three capabilities, but all seven will be detailed in SMG’s upcoming Leadership Capabilities for 2026 White Paper. The paper draws on five years of leadership data and thousands of coaching engagements.
9. Can I share the recording with my team?
Yes. The webinar is designed to support leaders and teams, and you are welcome to share the recording with colleagues, direct reports or clients.
10. What other SMG resources are available on the future of leadership?
SMG produces ongoing insights, articles, webinars and programs focused on leadership development, coaching and high-performing teams. More content on Leadership trends and insights are regularly published by SMG. Keep in touch by subscribing.
