Defying conventional boundaries, Sakis Tassoudis has forged an extraordinary path that intertwines business prowess with a profound commitment to redefining leadership paradigms. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of vision, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the synergy between operational excellence and human-centric values. For over two decades, Sakis has navigated the intricate landscapes of global technology and finance, gaining insightful expertise working and advising Fortune 500 titans like SAP, Mercedes Benz, Bosch Siemens, Barclays, ABN AMRO and others. His strategic understanding and ability to deftly navigate organisational and technological constraints have yielded remarkable achievements in cost reduction, service delivery optimisation, and process improvement.

One of Sakis' career milestones was his instrumental role in the groundbreaking spinoff that birthed the SAP Fioneer joint venture. As the Chief Operations Officer, he and his team worked on the seamless transition of 750 employees from SAP, establishing critical processes and coordinating efforts across partners to ensure operational excellence from day one.  Appointed as a Managing Director for Growth Markets, Sakis orchestrated market expansion strategies that spanned Latin America, Southern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. His initiatives, driven by interdisciplinary teams, unlocked growth in the financial services industry by forging partnerships with key institutions seeking to transform their core banking, insurance, and analytical systems. Sakis's ability to engage directly with C-suite executives and his mastery of negotiation, agreement structuring, and architectural design of contract neg have consistently maximised long-term ROI for clients.

Sakis' 18-year tenure at SAP is a testament to his transformational leadership and vision. Ascending through increasingly challenging roles, he left an indelible mark as a Global Head of Solution Management, overseeing financial services solutions' development and market strategy. His impact extended to driving innovation, optimising revenue streams, and spearheading sales transformation strategies as a Vice President for Premium Customers in Europe. As General Manager at SAP, Sakis assumed leadership in expanding the software's footprint in the EMEA region, mobilising vital resources to secure profitable vendor agreements, and driving continuous process improvement for a € 300 million business. His strategic prowess extended to formulating regional strategies, overseeing executive sponsorship for top strategic customers, and leading interdisciplinary teams across 14 market units spanning 73 countries.

A diverse academic journey complements Sakis' professional odyssey. With a Diploma in Law and Economics, a Master of Science in Sales Leadership & Transformation, and a Doctor of Professional Studies in progress at Middlesex University London, he has emerged as a thought leader in "Humanified Leadership" – a paradigm that advocates for leadership imbued with empathy, integrity, and human values, targeting transformative growth and innovation. His doctoral research delves into the profound implications of this philosophy, catalysed by his autoethnographic observations of the erosion of ethics and the rise of dehumanisation within leadership circles. Sakis' vision transcends academic confines; it is a clarion call for leaders to embrace a more human, ethical, and inclusive approach, intertwining operational excellence with a commitment to human growth and moral integrity. As an engaging practitioner-researcher and upcoming author, Sakis participates in research articles, podcasts, and global conferences, sharing his insights on "Humanified Leadership" and its potential to reshape business landscapes. His thought leadership has been featured in Entrepreneur and other esteemed publications, cementing his status as a catalyst for positive change.

Beyond his professional achievements, Sakis' impact extends to advisory roles with industry bodies, where he lends his expertise to shape research and strategies. His contributions include articles in the Sales Transformation Journal and his contribution in the book Transformational Sales Leadership. Yet, beneath the contributions and milestones lies a profound truth: Sakis Tassoudis is a visionary on a mission to redefine leadership success. At the intersection of technological advancement and societal transformation, he invites you to join him in cultivating ecosystems where innovation, empathy, and human values flourish. Envision a future where leadership enhances organisations while enriching lives and communities – a realm where ethical integrity, purpose, and empowerment converge to transform our business world. This is the essence of "Humanified Leadership," Sakis extends an open invitation to embrace its potential. In a world where conventional metrics often overshadow human impact, Sakis Tassoudis stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us that authentic leadership transcends bottom lines and quarter figures. It is a calling rooted in a deep commitment to uplifting individuals, fostering inclusive cultures, and harnessing the power of technology to create a better world.

Join Sakis on this transformative journey, where leadership embodies humanity at its core, propelling us towards a future defined by ethical integrity, purposeful impact, and a profound reverence for the human spirit. Together, we can chart a course that harmonises operational excellence with the essence of our shared humanity – a path that will undoubtedly leave an enduring legacy for generations.

 

HUMANIFY LEADERSHIP

"IT IS TIME TO UNLEARN EXISTING, NON-EVOLUTIONARY METHODS AND PRACTICES FOR LEADERSHIP, THAT GOT US HERE." 

Leading the Charge in Humanified Leadership

The word 'VISION' surrounded by a splash of water and bubbles against a dark background.

Mission and Vision

With the initiative of Humanify Leadership, I envision initiating and orchestrating a pivotal leadership movement aimed at redefining the essence and impact of leadership in the contemporary era. At this historical juncture, society faces a critical choice—a choice between continuing down a path marred by leadership crises or embracing a transformative shift towards a leadership model that is purpose-driven, ethical, inclusive, and human-centric. This is a call not just for change but for a profound revolution in leadership practices, moving beyond the pursuit of personal gain towards stewarding humanity towards a more equitable and interconnected future.

My mission transcends a conventional career path; it is a calling fueled by a life-long dedication to challenging the status quo and pioneering a new future for leadership. This future envisions leaders not merely as organisational guides but as stewards of humanity, championing purpose, empathy, and transdisciplinary innovation. As the founder of humleads.org, I extend a rallying cry to leaders and future visionaries to join in this transformative journey towards humanifying leadership—making it more adaptable, responsive, and genuinely connected to our shared human experience.

the word change on old typewriter

The Imperative for Change

 In an age where the need for drastic change is undeniable, Humanified Leadership, as a movement, emerges as a beacon of hope. We stand at a critical crossroads, witnessing the detrimental effects of leadership that prioritise selfish ambitions over proper mentorship and integrity. It is time to draw a definitive line, demand more from our leaders, and collectively embark on a journey towards creating a leadership paradigm rooted in genuine, humanified direction and integrity.
Call for Change: History is replete with movements that have shaped the course of humanity—some evolutionary, others revolutionary. Today, the call for Humanified Leadership is louder and more urgent than ever, challenging us to reject self-serving agendas in favour of a leadership that places the communal benefit at its core. Humanified Leadership is academic research with a solid populist mandate—a surge from within demanding leaders who are committed to serving with purposeful intent and inclusivity.

Conceptual core values integrity ethics circle concept word cloud in hands isolated on background metaphor to honesty, quality, trust, statement, character, important, perseverance respect trustworthy

Based on Values ...

The journey towards humanified leadership is based on my two-decade journey in leadership roles marked by significant milestones. These milestones demonstrate the transformative power of leading with empathy, integrity, and a human touch. These experiences underscore the potential of leadership to achieve organisational success and foster cultures of understanding, stakeholder engagement, and profound societal impact.
A Creed to Live By. My guiding principle in facing global crises and unrelenting volatility is clear: leadership must evolve beyond traditional paradigms to embrace trust, collaboration, and a drive for collective action. This creed advocates for a future where leadership is synonymous with sustainability, justice, and human dignity, bridging divides and pioneering with purpose.
Envisioning Tomorrow: My ambition knows no bounds as I strive to forge a path for purpose-driven, ethical, inclusive, and humanised leadership. This journey is about reimagining leadership that honours our shared humanity and leverages the transformative power of technology and innovative practices to lead through change.

1. Journal of Sales Transformation: The Emerging Importance of Ethical Leadership

2. Book: Transformational Sales Leadership: Humanifying leadership for the twenty-first century

Instagram humleads.org

🌟 Humanified Leadership by HUMLEADS 
💡 Leading with Soul in the Age of AI

The Anthropocene is here, shaped by technology and AI, but leadership isn’t about algorithms—it’s about humanity. Whether you're just starting your leadership journey or are a seasoned expert, human-centred leadership is essential to thriving in this new era. 🌍✨

At HUMLEADS, we bring you cutting-edge research, practical tools, and inspirational insights to help you lead with purpose and empathy in a world shaped by AI 💼🤖

👉 Why follow us?
🔸 Stay ahead with the latest in leadership and AI.
🔸 Learn actionable tips to humanize your leadership style.
🔸 Be part of a global community redefining leadership for the future.

Ready to lead with soul? Join a growing community of forward-thinkers and change-makers! 🌱

🌐 Visit www.humleads.org to explore more.
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🧠 Follow us for updates that empower you to lead with heart and vision.

✨ Let’s shape Leadership in the Age of AI 
 #HumanifiedLeadership #LeadershipInAI #futureofleadership #humancenteredleadership #human #humanity #leadership #leadershipdevelopment #leadershipskills #leadershipredefinedLeadership often conjures images of benevolent, visionary guides steering their organizations to success. However, beneath the polished surface lies a more complex and sometimes darker side of leadership that demands acknowledgment. This article delves into Hard Core Leadership—not to promote it, but to recognize its presence and importance in a holistic understanding of leadership. read more at: https://humleads.org/blog/hard-core-leadership--acknowledging-the-dark-side-in-leadership-studies🔥 Is your company still relying on an "AI czar" to drive innovation? According to Sowmyanarayan Sampath in his insightful HBR article from April 30, 2024, "Your Teams Should Drive AI Adoption — Not Senior Leadership," this traditional approach might be hindering more than helping. 🚀

Sampath argues that true technological adoption flourishes at the frontlines, not in the confines of a boardroom. Empowering teams directly involved in daily operations enables more tailored and effective AI solutions, fostering innovation that's both practical and impactful. 🤖💡

At companies like Verizon, ditching the top-down AI czar model for a decentralized, team-driven approach has not only accelerated AI integration but also enhanced performance across various departments. This hands-on strategy ensures that AI tools are not just implemented, but are evolved and optimized continuously through real-time feedback and frontline expertise. 🌐✨

💬 What do you think? Could your company benefit from empowering its frontline teams to lead AI initiatives? Share your thoughts below! ⬇️

#AIAdoption #Leadership #TechnologyInnovation #TeamEmpowerment #BusinessStrategy #SowmyanarayanSampath #humleadsToxic work environments are alarmingly common, often characterized by a culture of disrespect, non-inclusiveness, and unethical behavior. The roots of such toxicity can vary, including poor leadership, a lack of clear values, or an ultra-competitive atmosphere that prizes results over people. Regardless of the cause, the effects on employees are uniformly detrimental, impacting mental and physical health, reducing productivity, and fostering a culture of fear and dissatisfaction.

Employees trapped in toxic workplaces report increased stress, anxiety, and even long-term health issues such as heart disease. The psychological toll can lead to burnout, significantly reducing engagement and leading to high turnover rates. Beyond individual consequences, toxic environments erode the foundation of the organization itself, undermining trust, stifling innovation, and damaging its reputation in the marketplace.
Recognizing the signs of a toxic workplace is crucial, whether it's through the interview process, the experiences and testimonials of current or past employees, or the overall culture and values communicated by the company. Awareness and avoidance are key strategies for professionals seeking not just to survive but to thrive in their careers.

The message is clear: understanding and identifying the hallmarks of toxic work environments can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their professional journeys, steering towards healthier, more supportive workplaces.Leadership Beyond Power: Unraveling the Ethical Dimension
The concept of leadership transcends the mere possession of a title or position, a notion brought sharply into focus by the "Hitler problem." This term, introduced by Ciulla (1995), questions whether leadership can be considered devoid of moral implications, asking, "Was Hitler a leader?" This query challenges us to differentiate between positional power and genuine leadership.

Heifetz (1994) critiques the "great man" theory of leadership, which lumps together individuals like Hitler, Lincoln, and Gandhi based on their historical impact, ignoring the moral underpinnings of their leadership. This argument is nuanced by Bennis and Nanus (1985), who suggest that true leaders do the right things, hinting at a moral dimension to leadership.

Real-world examples, such as the downfall of Enron, highlight the dangers of equating leadership with authority without ethical consideration. Similarly, the presidencies of leaders like George W. Bush demonstrate that leadership effectiveness does not always align with academic models advocating participatory styles.

The ethical lapses seen in companies like Uber and Theranos further underscore the distinction between having a leadership position and being a true leader. These cases reveal that genuine leadership requires a commitment to ethical principles and the ability to inspire positive change, beyond merely holding power.

In essence, the leadership debate necessitates a deeper examination of ethical conduct and influence, moving beyond traditional views of power and position. The "Hitler problem" serves as a stark reminder that true leadership is defined not by authority but by moral integrity and the capacity to effect meaningful change. References:
Ciulla, J.B. (1995). "The Hitler Problem in Leadership."
Heifetz, R.A. (1994). "Leadership Without Easy Answers."
Bennis, W., & Nanus, B. (1985). "Leaders: Strategies for Taking Charge."Ever felt like there’s more to your leadership style but can’t quite unlock it? 🗝️ At Humanify Leadership, we believe that everyone has untapped potential just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re leading a team of 2 or 2000, understanding your unique strengths is key. Dive in with us, and let's explore what makes you a truly impactful leader. Unleash the leader within! #LeadershipGrowth #UnlockPotential #HumanifyLeadershipIn the age of the Anthropocene, where human activity shapes our planet's destiny, leadership faces unprecedented challenges. But amidst these trials, there lies an opportunity to redefine leadership paradigms through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). Contrary to fears of AI depersonalizing leadership, it can, in fact, humanize it in profound ways. Here's how:

Enhanced Decision-Making: AI empowers leaders with unprecedented access to data, enabling more informed and ethical decision-making. By processing vast amounts of information swiftly, AI identifies patterns and insights beyond human capacity, aiding leaders in anticipating challenges and crafting comprehensive strategies aligned with societal responsibilities.

Fostering Inclusivity and Diversity: AI-driven tools combat unconscious biases in hiring and team dynamics, fostering a more inclusive workplace. By analyzing data objectively, AI supports leaders in making fair decisions in talent management, nurturing diverse strengths within teams and promoting a culture of respect.

Supporting Emotional Intelligence: Understanding and nurturing human emotions is essential in the Anthropocene. AI tools, particularly in natural language processing, assist leaders in gauging team morale and addressing conflicts proactively. By analyzing communication patterns and feedback, AI bridges the gap between analytical and emotional aspects of leadership, fostering stronger connections within teams.

Enabling Sustainable Leadership: Leadership in the Anthropocene demands sustainability and long-term thinking. AI equips leaders with tools to assess decisions' environmental impact and optimize resource use. By integrating AI into strategic planning, leaders can identify opportunities for reducing waste and contributing to global efforts against climate change.

In conclusion, AI emerges not as a threat but as a powerful ally in humanizing leadership in the Anthropocene. Leaders who embrace AI's potential will navigate these challenges with empathy, foresight, and a deep commitment to the well-being of their organizations and the planet. Let's embrace AI to humanify leadership.What do you think?Leadership faces perpetual crises amidst the complex, interconnected challenges of the Anthropocene epoch. Traditional leadership models focused on control, and prediction requires reassessment to guide social-ecological systems towards justice and sustainability.
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