As head of automotive for Google's partnership division, Leo Osako leads a team of regional consultants to build C-suite relationships and drive transformative digital partnerships with the auto industry. As the scope of his work and responsibilities increased, he attended the Leading Global Businesses program to invest in himself and gain new perspective to become the best leader for his team. In this interview, he shares his experience and insight.
Many executive leaders I admire and professional mentors of mine are HBS alumni, and they have always encouraged me to attend an executive education program when the timing was right. With an expanding scope of work and regional responsibilities, I decided to invest in myself by taking a step back from my daily responsibilities and reflecting on my view of the world and values as a leader. I felt Leading Global Businesses would connect me with acclaimed professors and senior executives from different industries and countries and would provide me with an immersive environment that would challenge my perspectives and ideas.
The GLGs (Global Leadership Groups) create an intimate bond between a small group of trusted classmates. It is unlike any other relationship I’ve seen in a workplace. Within this cohort, I had rich exchanges about work challenges, personal life events, and even passions. It was clear that HBS ensures a safe and inclusive environment is at the core of the program experience. The trust and respect you develop with the other participants foster a long-lasting relationship that extends far beyond the program.
The interactions with faculty members also left a lasting impression on me. The way the professors orchestrated the classroom experience reminded me of a concert or a Broadway performance. From the thought-provoking questions to the seamless topic transitions, by the end of each session, the professors have found a way to bridge different viewpoints in a cohesive case examination.
The program is intricately designed to allow you to detach from your daily life. I was able to think more holistically about my company's business and my leadership principles. After returning to my home and office, I still feel the program's impact in the way I interact with colleagues and stakeholders.
The program stressed the importance of staying true to your company's purpose, and of keeping all stakeholders in mind when making critical business decisions. My commitment as a leader is to put this balanced strategic thinking into daily practice and encourage team members to build a similar mindset.
Many people view leadership as the smartest person with all the answers. Leading Global Businesses reminds you of the importance of empathy, compassion, and humility. Those are core traits of leaders who inspire themselves and others towards a common vision. I've also learned the importance of carving out time for reflection, and to periodically ask the question, "How is my action serving the greater good of the team, the company, and society?"
This program is a sophisticated platform for networking and innovation. Strive to prepare well in advance and go deep into the program materials. Make an effort to exchange ideas with classmates and faculty members. The more you immerse yourself in the experience, the more you will come out of the program rejuvenated with a new sense of self, purpose, and drive. What I gained from HBS is a fundamental shift in my way of thinking about leadership. This was by far the most rewarding and enlightening educational experience of my professional career.