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Rethinking leadership: Why great leaders embrace tension

Masterclass
When
13 January 2026
Time
12pm CET (1 hour)
Where
Online
Open to

Public

An IMD masterclass on leveraging tension for better leadership

Most people think effective leadership is about creating trust, making people feel included, keeping everyone psychologically safe, and giving clear direction. And while these things matter, they can sometimes push leaders toward seeking too much comfort and certainty.

But real growth –for leaders, teams, and organizations – often comes from dissonance: those moments of tension, discomfort, or conflicting ideas that challenge our usual ways of thinking and working. Instead of avoiding these moments, great leaders learn to work with them.

In this masterclass, Professor Ben Bryant will explore why the ability to hold dissonance is likely to become one of the most significant experiences of leadership roles in the decades ahead. As Professor of Leadership and Organization at IMD, and Program Director of the Transformational Leader program, Professor Bryant brings deep experience from research and real-world leadership development.

What we’ll unpack:

  • What “dissonance” really means and why moments of tension can help leaders grow.
  • How your own internal discomfort connects to what happens in your team or organization.
  • Simple, practical ways to build your “dissonance muscle,” so you can stay steady and effective even when things feel unclear or challenging.

After the masterclass, join us for:

  • An informative discussion on IMD’s leadership programs and signature Orchestrating Winning Performance program, with our Program Advisors.
  • Guidance on how our offerings can align with your career goals.
  • Answers to your questions about our programs and approach to learning.


Agenda:

  • 12:00 – 12:45: Masterclass – Rethinking leadership: Why great leaders embrace tension with Professor Ben Bryant.
  • 12:45 – 13:00: Engage with our Program Advisors for an overview of IMD’s leadership and Orchestrating Winning Performance programs, followed by a Q&A.


Please note, this event will not be recorded. This is a unique opportunity to experience the IMD learning journey live. 

Discover our unique portfolio of leadership programs
01.
Enjoy a taste of an IMD learning experience
02.
Interact and ask questions
03.
Understand our portfolio’s diversity
04.
Find the program that’s right for you
Who will host the session?
Register for this event

After submitting your registration, you will receive a confirmation email with the details of your online masterclass. A reminder will be sent to you before the event.

We look forward to meeting you online and answering any questions you may have.