Bob McDonald: A Leader in Public and Private Sectors

As a former cabinet secretary of the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and CEO of Procter & Gamble, Bob McDonald is one of a handful of leaders who has excelled in both the public and private sectors. Under his leadership at VA, he delivered a significant uplift in service to veterans and organizational culture, and as CEO of Procter & Gamble, he led global expansion, sustained innovation, and profitable growth.

Leadership Excellence Series Interview

As part of our Leadership Excellence series, Bob McDonald sat down with Roland Dillon and Scott Blackburn to reflect on his approach to leadership, teamwork, and culture. An edited transcript of the discussion follows.

Key Insights from the Interview

Throughout the interview, Bob McDonald shared valuable insights on leadership, culture, and transformation. Here are some key takeaways:

• Leadership is a skill that requires intentional and deliberate practice.
• Culture is a critical aspect of organizational success and is often undervalued.
• Human-centered design can be a powerful tool for transforming bureaucracies and large organizations.
• Successful leadership involves recognizing the unique qualities of different leaders and adapting to the context.
• Leadership in the public sector requires a focus on mission, values, and principles to drive organizational performance.
• Celebrating small wins can lead to larger successes and create a positive organizational culture.

FAQ

What were the biggest challenges Bob McDonald faced as VA secretary?

Bob McDonald faced challenges related to a culture of learned helplessness, hierarchical structures, and lack of trust within the VA organization. He also had to address issues of integrity and values among employees.

How did Bob McDonald approach cultural and operational challenges at VA?

Bob McDonald implemented human-centered design, engaged employees and customers in the transformation process, and focused on aligning strategies with values and principles to drive organizational change.

What advice did Bob McDonald give to leaders in the public sector?

Bob McDonald emphasized the importance of leadership over politics, the need for longer tenures for public sector leaders, and the value of customer service and leadership training in government agencies.

Conclusion

Bob McDonald’s insights on leadership, culture, and transformation provide valuable lessons for leaders in both the public and private sectors. By focusing on purpose, values, and principles, and embracing human-centered design and strategic alignment, leaders can drive meaningful change and achieve sustainable success.