In this episode of Women Leadership Reframe, podcast host Ellie English interviews Robyn Agoston, the Global Head of transformational change at Novartis.

Robyn shares her remarkable career journey that spans over 20 years and across seven countries, from working in her family's restaurant in Canada to leading digital and people transformation initiatives at one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies.

The conversation delves deeply into topics, such as authentic leadership, overcoming biases, managing career transitions, and the importance of emotional intelligence and learning agility.

The episode emphasises the necessity of a human-first and modern leadership mindset and explores how organisations can cultivate empathy, accountability, and long-term strategic thinking amidst the evolving landscape of work.

As Robyn prepares to close her current chapter at Novartis, she offers invaluable insights on managing transitions, combating scarcity mindsets, and why it's crucial to adopt an abundance mindset—both in business and in life.

This episode is packed with actionable advice for leaders looking to navigate change, foster resilience, and lead with humanity.

00:00 Welcome to Women Leadership Reframe

01:18 Introducing Robyn Agoston

01:57 Robyn's Career Journey

04:35 Navigating Career Transitions

07:50 Embracing Change and Lifelong Learning

15:03 Scarcity Mindset and Leadership

19:20 Human-Centric Leadership

25:28 Authenticity in Leadership

33:20 Addressing Inherent Bias in Leadership

34:38 Challenges of the Traditional Workweek

35:43 The Limitations of DEI Programs

36:54 Intersectionality and Bias Awareness

37:22 Cultural Awareness in Leadership

41:04 Experiencing Systemic Racism

42:47 Empathy and Understanding in Leadership

43:36 Early Career Lessons in Tolerance

46:05 Advocating for Mothers in the Workplace

50:21 Navigating Leadership Conversations with Grace

53:08 Redefining Effective Leadership

56:02 Conscious Capitalism and Leadership

59:34 Intentional Leadership and Organisational Change

01:06:29 The Importance of Learning Agility

01:07:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Biography:

Robyn Agoston is the Global Head of Transformational Change at Novartis, with over 20 years of experience driving strategic change across global organisations. As a seasoned organisational architect and transformational change expert, Robyn has a proven track record of leading complex digital and operational transformations that align people, technology, and the future of work.

Her career began in Canada, where she gained early leadership experience working in her family’s restaurant business. She holds an MA in Labour Studies and Human Resources from McMaster University and a BAH in Global Development and Religious Studies from Queen's University. Robyn’s passion for global impact led her to roles with the UNDP, ILO, and NGOs in India, Namibia, and Ghana, focusing on youth employment and migrant labor issues.

In London, Robyn excelled as a Management Consultant at KPMG, where she led the Change Capability Practice for the UK and earned her Chartered Management Accountant (CIMA) qualification. Following a successful consulting career, she took a 14-month sabbatical, during which she travelled extensively, earned her Yoga Teacher Training certification, and authored a popular travel blog.

At Novartis, Robyn has been instrumental in advancing digital-first and AI-driven initiatives, developing bespoke products, and creating innovative operating models. She is also a certified Scrum Master and CTI-certified Co-Active Coach, committed to fostering human-centric leadership in today’s rapidly evolving workplace.

A Canadian, British, and Hungarian citizen, Robyn has lived and worked in seven countries, making her adept at navigating diverse cultures and driving change on an international scale. Currently, she is exploring new opportunities that align with her passion for the intersection of people, technology, and leadership. As a lifelong learner, she is also training to become an International Mountain Leader and a BASI Level-2 ski instructor.

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