Masterclass on Strategic Leadership with Hari Kumar: Key Takeaways

On November 3, 2025, the Faculty of Management & Commerce at the Institute of MBA hosted an inspiring masterclass on Strategic Leadership, led by Mr. Hari Kumar, Leader and Managing Partner at PwC Global Acceleration Centres. The session provided deep insights into what it takes to lead effectively in today’s dynamic global environment.

Why Strategic Leadership Matters
Mr. Kumar emphasized that leadership begins with self-leadership. Before guiding others, leaders must operate with clarity and purpose. Visionary leadership is not just about setting goals—it’s about translating vision into execution and sustaining performance, even during turbulent times.

Key Drivers of Success

• Two pillars stood out in the discussion:
• Structured Learning (School): Continuous education and formal learning shape strategic thinking.
• Passion: Self-driven motivation fuels innovation and resilience.

Lessons from Experience
Drawing from his 28 years in business, Mr. Kumar shared that adaptability is crucial. Strategy often depends on context, and execution challenges are inevitable. Overcoming these constraints is what differentiates successful leaders.

Themes That Shape Modern Leadership

• Technology & AI: Leaders must embrace technological advancements and align with global trends.
• Global Mindset: Balancing local relevance with global collaboration is essential.
• Decision-Making in Crisis: Creativity, Clarity, and Compassion—the “three Cs”—are vital during critical situations.

Leadership Traits & Values
True leadership blends emotional intelligence with strategic foresight. Mr. Kumar highlighted the importance of ownership, teamwork, and core values, stressing that leaders should never leave anyone behind. Compassionate leadership, as exemplified by figures like Mother Teresa, remains timeless.

Defining Success
Success is personal—it’s about finding your sweet spot of professional growth, context awareness, and intrinsic motivation. Happiness and patience are as important as external achievements.

In Conclusion:
The masterclass was a powerful reminder that leadership is a journey of continual learning, collaboration, and purpose. As Mr. Kumar put it, building clarity, emotional intelligence, and resilience is key to crafting a legacy of global leadership.