The State of Leadership Throughout Distribution
Over 200 executives provide an unprecedented look into how the nature of leadership is changing in distribution.
This landmark research and free, call-to-action report is available for immediate download.
“What‘s worked in the past definitely doesn’t apply anymore. People need guidance and support now more than ever, and negative market change needs to be outpaced by positive change from true leaders.”– Survey Respondent
Avoid the sting of negative forces impacting distribution. Reimagine leadership and put people and purpose first.
In spring 2022, UnleashWD surveyed 232 executives about the changing nature of leadership in a post-pandemic world. Not only did they share their thoughts on why the art and science of leadership is changing – they shared their mounting concerns for those who don’t adapt.
As our report shows, companies that have the best odds of winning the war for talent and long-term growth also recognize the dangers of holding onto old paradigms of leadership. They are committed to shift to the noble calling of leadership.
8 in 10
distribution executives believe we must be different leaders coming out of the pandemic than going in.
Leadership is being put to the test.
The pandemic for many individuals has forced a re-examination of life and work. Work-life balance and meaningful work have become central. If they aren’t aligned with the values of the companies they work for, they know they have other options.
“If your organization is not a people-first organization, your people will find one.” – Survey Respondent
Leadership is at an inflection point.
In fact, there is a 41 percentage-point difference between where distributors think most leaders are now – managing – to where they think leaders should be five years from now – noble calling.
“We are in danger of becoming extinct if management philosophies continue to remain archaic.” – Survey Respondent
53%
said that how distributors are currently leading puts them in danger.
93%
of executives say the human element will play a bigger role in leadership going forward.
Leadership is becoming personal.
A staggering 93% of executives indicated leaders must focus not just on the job to be done but on the individual. The respondents made it clear that employees want to feel valued. Your ability to grow and develop the individual is critical to success.
“In creating a sustainable business, we provide the opportunity for all team members to improve the life and well-being of their families.” – Survey Respondent
Reimagining leadership is an urgent need.
Nothing in anyone’s experience prepared us for the period in which we live and will live for the foreseeable future. Over three-fourths of respondents are feeling the pressure of the world around them to adapt to a new way of leadership required by their people.
“Your employees are going to demand a higher level of leadership.” – Survey Respondent
78%
of leaders believe the nature of leadership is changing as a result of COVID and other disruptive forces.
Consider this your call to action – learn both how and why the nature of leadership is changing throughout distribution.
In this landmark report, get an unprecedented look into the major forces – what we term in the report The Great Redefinition – driving change and, as a result, how distributors must lead from here on out.
Download our full 35+ page research report, and get more than 25 key findings detailing:
How the speed and confluence of change is driving dramatic shifts in leadership
Why top-down leadership no longer works
The qualities leaders need to learn – and unlearn – to succeed today
The transformative impact of the generational shift on the workplace
The role of innovation in leadership
Why exceptions in the workplace have become the rule, and what that means for leaders and organizations going forward
How the professional AND personal needs of the individual can and should play a greater role in leadership
A three-step action plan to apply the findings to your business
Register Below For Immediate Access!
Download our new, landmark call-to-action report now!
This Report Is Brought To You By:
About UnleashWD & Dirk Beveridge
UnleashWD is a design, innovation, and strategy firm that transforms legacy distributors into nimble and innovative market leaders. Dirk Beveridge is the founder of UnleashWD, Executive Producer at We Supply America, President of the Beveridge Consulting Group, and Champion for the noble calling of distribution for over 36 years. His one-of-a-kind perspective on the future of wholesale distribution has guided his mission to advance the growth, relevance, and transformation of the industry, helping distributors thrive. Learn more by visiting www.WeSupplyAmerica.net.
About Wipfli & Chris Blaylock
Wipfli is a top 20 accounting and consulting firm that has served the distribution industry for more than 90 years. With Wipfli’s dedicated industry experts, clients benefit from insightful thinking across critical areas of their business — gaining greater financial success, digital optimization, operational excellence and an engaged workforce. Chris Blaylock is a partner at Wipfli and serves as the firm’s distribution practice leader, focused on keeping distributors vibrant and thriving in our communities. Learn more by visiting www.wipfli.com/MRD.
© 2022 FUTURE OF DISTRIBUTION | A PROPERTY OF UNLEASHWD BY DIRK BEVERIDGE. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
