Everyone has a unique purpose.

 

However, not everyone is aware of it. Helping individuals discover their true selves and realize their own unique purpose is the essence of great leadership.

 

In this episode of Fifth Dimensional Leadership, I interview Imran Qureshi. Imran serves as Managing Director and Head of North America with 30 years of experience. He is responsible for WTW's business in Canada and the United States across all business segments, growing revenue, representing WTW in the business community and securing the engagement of ~17,000 colleagues. In this interview, Imran talks about how to unlock the value of people through purpose-driven leadership.

 

Previously, Imran chaired WTW's North America Inclusion & Diversity (I&D) Council and served on WTW's Growth Board. Prior to that, he held leadership positions in WTW's Global Services and Solutions business, during which he worked with North American and European multinationals helping them go global through acquisitions, organic growth and governance. Before joining WTW, Imran was an international consultant in the United Kingdom.

 

Imran holds a BSc. Degree in mathematics with honors from the University of Manchester in the U.K. and has an actuarial background. He also holds a diploma in International Employee Benefits from the International Employee Benefits Association (IEBA) and has lectured on governance and globalization at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business. Imran is currently a board director at The Executives' Club of Chicago. 

 

Things you will also learn in this episode:

 

• How to overcome risk aversion and limiting beliefs.
• Finding purpose-driven work and experiencing the joy of the moment.
• Distinguishing between mentorship and sponsorship, and the need for both.
• How to bring “sunlight” and accountability to your organization
• How to use discomfort as a means to grow.

 

Quotes:

 

“We have to move away from the hero culture and transition the true meaning of leadership into unlocking the value of individuals.” - Imran Qureshi

 

“Often, you don’t realize the advice you get and its pivotal impact until much later, so it’s important to be self-reflective.” - Imran Qureshi

 

“The ability to advocate on behalf of others is the distinction between mentorship and sponsorship.” - Imran Qureshi

 

“Your reputation is tied to a function of promoting who you believe is ready to be developed, promoted, and moved along.” - Imran Qureshi

 

“When you communicate that you are doing things differently, you start to build trust.” - Imran Qureshi

 

“When you can build that culture of trust and psychological safety, you start to move the dial.” - Imran Qureshi

 

“Purpose transcends lofty individual perspectives, but the key is asking that fundamental question: ‘Why do you do what you do?’” - Imran Qureshi

 

“As soon as you become comfortable, you stop growing.” - Imran Qureshi

 

“We are a function of our experiences.” - Imran Qureshi