Leadership and governance in a crisis: some reflections on COVID-19

Purpose The COVID-19 crisis presents significant leadership and governance challenges and opportunities for organisations. This is a reflective commentary on how leaders and boards are responding to the crisis. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on personal experiences as an employee, non-executive director and observing leaders. Findings That leaders emphasise values and purpose and communicate with clarity, meaning and empathy is paramount. It is organisations which continue to be agile and to adapt and change proactively with “out of the box” thinking who will thrive in the next normal. Originality/value The lessons learned from this unique crisis for business continuity and success in the next normal.