Former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright was this morning’s keynote presenter at the SAS Global Forum Executive Conference in Washington, DC. The theme of the conference is, “Leading with Confidence in an Era of Uncertainty,” which can certainly apply to the commercial sector as well as political leaders. She spoke about the importance of thinking critically and using facts – not fear – to make decisions … which is what SAS helps customers do.
Diplomats and corporate executives both must deal with a global environment, competing interests, and the responsibility of holding a position of trust. They must have a vision and be able to forecast the future but unfortunately, surprises are a part of life. She starkly juxtaposed the way things were 12 months ago with the way they are now in the energy, financial, economy, housing sectors, etc.
Dr. Albright outlined the challenges we face as only an expert diplomat can. She tied collapsing economies to social and political upheaval, often to the detriment of the United States. She balked at the urge towards protectionism, saying a global economic structure that brings not only developing nations to the table but multinational corporations and non-governmental organizations will be key to pulling out of the crisis.
President Barack Obama faces an extraordinary set of challenges which have to be worked on simultaneously, as they are all related. Dr. Albright emphasized the importance of diplomacy in these efforts.
She believes Obama leads with confidence, which is better than certainty. (There’s that conference theme again!) The team he’s put together shows his openness to opposing viewpoints and his flexibility to change. Dr. Albright indicated her own willingness to do this by admitting she listens to Rush Limbaugh, which drew some chuckles from the crowd.
Ultimately, she said, the world is in urgent need of political leaders who do more than manage the most difficult issues, but also look forward strategically, driven by hope instead of fear. We’ve wandered into an unknown global political landscape, and it is important that we consult with other countries regularly to make sure our policies don’t undercut theirs.
Dr. Albright is optimistic about the resilience of democratic values. Through rule of law, a free market, a free exchange of ideas and power restrained by accountability, a democratic system is flexible and allows for course correction. That is the key to “Leading with Confidence in an Era of Uncertainty,” she said.