The Challenge and Strength of Modern Leadership

Sometimes I ask myself: what am I, really?

Originally a 'technologist', for years now a 'manager', and in many transformations also a 'coach'.

At times, I notice that I look at things differently from most managers.

Coaches sometimes see me as a bit traditional, while teams often describe me as a strong people leader.

It may sound contradictory, but I’ve come to realize that this mix of perspectives is exactly what makes me effective.

Four facets of leadership

During my time at ASML, I worked with a leadership model built around four facets. It’s a model I still use as my compass today:

	Role Model – demonstrating the behavior you expect from others.
	Coach – developing, challenging, and guiding people and teams.
	People Leader – building healthy teams, fostering connection, and enabling growth.
	Business Leader – providing direction, making choices, and delivering results.

A modern leader combines all these facets. Not always at the same time, but in balance. And finding that balance is often a journey in itself.

• As a Business Leader, you risk being seen as too conservative.

• As a Coach, you can inspire others, yet sometimes lose sight of hard realities.

• As a Role Model, you know you’re not perfect.

• As a People Leader, you invest in others while the short-term pressures demand results.

It’s the combination that makes the difference.

You gain credibility because you can speak multiple languages: results and culture, today and tomorrow.

I’m not a typical 'business leader', not a classic 'coach', and no longer just a 'technologist'. I’m the combination.

And perhaps that’s the essence of modern leadership.

How about you? Do you recognize the tension between these facets — and how do you navigate it?