Dr. Jen Donnell, Vice President of People + Culture at Amuneal, shares her insights on the intersection of creativity and leadership. Drawing from her background in music and performance, Donnell believes that effective leadership is as much an art as it is a science, involving the interpretation of environments and the channeling of energy to inspire and influence. She suggests that skills developed in artistic pursuits, such as reading a room, sensing emotions and adapting communication styles, can be transferred to leadership roles.
For Donnell, leadership, like performance, is about connection, authenticity and adaptability. She highlights the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, including active listening, reading nonverbal cues and tailoring approaches to individual needs. This fosters trust and creates an environment where employees feel valued and understood.
Donnell also emphasizes the power of storytelling in leadership. Just as performers use stories to engage audiences, leaders can use narratives to inspire, motivate and influence their teams. A compelling story about the company’s vision, an employee’s impact or a shared purpose can resonate more deeply than charts and metrics, adding a human dimension to leadership.