On the field and in the office, great leaders have one trait in common
Ian Madigan enjoyed a trophy-laden 15-year rugby career as an outhalf, and on Business Plus Talks, in association with Philip Lee, he draws a compelling comparison between the role of a number 10 and that of a company director.
Operating at fly-half, Madigan was effectively the manager of the backline, constantly communicating with the forwards through his scrum-half and dictating the flow of the game through split-second decisions on whether to run the ball or kick for territory.
Since hanging up his boots, he has carried those same skills into the next phase of his career.
Madigan speaks about the structure of professional rugby, from detailed analysis to how life is organised around performance, and how many of those lessons have translated seamlessly into the business world.
He outlines how he plans his week, allocates his time, and uses review processes to maximise performance in the days ahead.
Having played with some of the game’s top teams and leaders, Madigan notes that the best leaders in sport and business share one defining trait.
He also offers practical advice on standing out and embracing leadership, even when you’re new to a role or joining a team.
The conversation comes as Madigan prepares to take on a new role with Salesforce in the New Year, following spells as Head of Partnerships and Head of Sales at Dataships.
Alongside his business career, he has moved into punditry and, as a former number ten, provides sharp insight into the ongoing battle between Sam Prendergast and Jack Crowley to replace Johnny Sexton.
Ireland's fly half Ian Madigan kicks the ball during a quarter final match of the 2015 Rugby World Cup between Ireland and Argentina at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, south Wales, on October 18, 2015. (Pic: AFP PHOTO / LOIC VENANCE)
Madigan follows Java Republic founder David McKernan, Volkswagen Group Ireland CEO Pierre Boutin and Smurfit WestRock CFO Ken Bowles in appearing on the podcast.
The pilot series, sponsored by law firm Philip Lee, explores themes across tax & finance, law & regulation, cybersecurity & technology, manufacturing & industry, and sustainability & ESG.
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