A Leader 's Path to Purposeful & People-First Leadership

Karen Vincent is a seasoned IT sales leader with over three decades of experience, known for driving industry growth through strategic leadership and strong client relationships. Her adaptability, commitment to mentorship, and advocacy for diversity continue to shape meaningful progress and innovation across the technology landscape.

In a thought-provoking interaction with Global Woman Leader Magazine, Karen reflects on the experiences, challenges, and values that have shaped her leadership journey. She talks about her early career lessons to purposeful, people-centred leadership that inspires resilience and authenticity.

To explore Karen’s deeper reflections on leadership, authenticity, and personal growth, read the full article below.

How did the early stages of work experience shape you into becoming the leader you have become today?

The early stages of my career really shaped me as a person. During those initial years, I had the chance to work closely with a diverse range of teams and face a variety of challenges that demanded adaptability, resilience, and good communication. Those experiences taught me the value of active listening, respecting different perspectives and opinions, and creating a collaborative work environment.

These foundational moments laid the groundwork for my leadership style, helping me to inspire and transform teams across different phases of my career. These learnings have been instrumental in shaping the leader I am today.

Were there any pivotal experiences or challenges along the way that really pushed your leadership and created an understanding of what authentic values driven leadership means to you?

Yes, there have been a few pivotal experiences and challenges that really shaped my understanding of authentic, values-driven leadership. One particularly impactful time was when I had to make a tough decision that involved balancing organisational goals with the well-being of my team. Navigating that situation taught me the importance of integrity, transparency, and staying true to my core values, even when the circumstances were challenging.

Another significant challenge was leading through a period of major change during a restructure early in my management career. That experience reinforced the need for empathy, clear communication, and building trust within the team. These moments underscored that authentic leadership is about genuinely caring for people, acting consistently with your values, and inspiring others to do the same. They helped me realise that true leadership isn’t just about achieving results — it’s about fostering a culture of trust, respect, and purpose.

Uncertainty usually comes with change and transformation. How do you lead your teams through those moments of uncertainty while continuing to inspire and focused on the larger goal?

In times of uncertainty, I believe it’s essential to maintain clear and transparent communication. I prioritize sharing the vision and the bigger picture with my team so they understand the purpose behind the change and how it fits with our overall strategy.

Engaging with the team this way helps foster a sense of stability and trust.

I also focus on actively listening to team members’ concerns and providing support where needed. This helps build resilience and a sense of collective ownership. Throughout these moments, I aim to stay optimistic and keep my focus on the bigger picture, inspiring confidence that we can navigate challenges together. By reinforcing our shared purpose and celebrating small wins along the way, I believe I can help keep the team motivated and aligned, even during uncertain times.

Balancing professional demands with personal well-being is never easy. How do you personally create that balance while continuing to lead with energy and clarity?

Balancing professional demands with personal well-being is a challenge many of us face, but I believe that having a balanced life is essential for sustainable leadership. I make a conscious effort to set clear boundaries between work and personal time, and I prioritise carving out moments for rest and activities that help me recharge, such as spending quality time with family and friends.

On a practical level, I trust my team and delegate effectively, which allows me to focus on the most important priorities without feeling overwhelmed. Ultimately, I believe that looking after my own well-being enables me to lead with more energy, clarity, and authenticity. It’s about recognising that taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury — it’s a vital part of being a good leader.

Mentorship and meaningful relationships often play a large role in leadership journeys. Can talk about someone who influenced your professional path and how do you create a similar impact on others?

Absolutely, mentorship and meaningful relationships have been key in my leadership journey. One person who had a significant influence on me was a senior leader early in my career. They took the time to genuinely understand my aspirations, offered honest feedback, and encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. Their support and guidance helped me build confidence and develop a clearer sense of purpose in my work.

I aim to create a similar impact for others by actively listening, offering mentorship, and fostering an environment where people feel valued and empowered.

I believe in sharing my experiences openly, providing constructive feedback, and encouraging ongoing growth. It’s about building genuine relationships based on trust and respect, and helping others see their potential — just as I was fortunate to experience. By acting this way, I hope to inspire others to reach their full potential and pay it forward in their own leadership journeys.

What would you tell to women leaders who wants to become authentic and purposeful leaders in their own professions?

To women leaders aspiring to lead with authenticity and purpose, I would say: “Embrace your unique strengths and values, and stay true to what genuinely matters to you and who you are.” Authentic leadership starts with self-awareness — understanding your passions, principles, and the impact you want to make.

Trust in your voice and don’t be afraid to lead with honesty.

Purposeful leadership is about aligning your actions with your core values and inspiring others to do the same. It is important to remember that your perspective and experiences are valuable assets that can drive meaningful change.

Always surround yourself with supportive networks and a mentor who uplift and challenge you, and most importantly, be patient and resilient — leadership is a journey of ongoing growth.