Embracing the Future of Leadership

Our seventh blog has been contributed by the visionary Jason Pascoe.

The Transformative Power of the Host Leader Model and Metaphor​

In today’s rapidly changing world, the metaphor and model of Host Leadership offer a powerful perspective for those seeking to navigate the complexities of leadership inclusively and effectively. The concept of Host Leadership moves beyond traditional leadership models, such as the authoritative ‘hero’ or service-oriented ‘servant,’ to introduce a framework emphasising partnership, engagement, and community building. This approach is particularly relevant in environments characterised by uncertainty and complexity, where a flexible and adaptive stance is paramount.  If you work with people, you work in complexity.

Group of people at the table

The Host Leader sees themselves not as a central figure to be served or revered but as a facilitator whose role is to create the conditions for others to succeed. This involves six key roles:

  1. Initiator, who sets things in motion.
  2. Inviter, who warmly encourages participation.
  3. Space-Creator, who designs environments conducive to collaboration.
  4. Gatekeeper, who manages boundaries.
  5. Connector, who links people and ideas.
  6. Co-Participator, who engages alongside others.


These roles are supported by four positions the Host Leader can adopt:

  1. In the Spotlight
  2. With the Guests
  3. In the Gallery
  4. In the Kitchen


Each offers a unique vantage point and mode of interaction with the team or community. The Host Leader is adept at ‘stepping forward and back,’ knowing when to take charge and when to step aside, allowing others to shine and take ownership.


Moreover, the Host Leader understands that leadership is a relationship rather than a role. They recognise the power of hosting — bringing people together to address complex, collective problems that affect everyone. This approach aligns with the belief that leadership is about facilitating the collective effort to tackle shared challenges rather than directing from a position of authority.


In a world that is increasingly recognised as volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA), the Host Leader metaphor provides a robust framework for navigating these challenges. It offers a way to foster a sense of belonging and engagement among team members, encourage innovation and creativity, and build a strong community focused on shared goals. By embodying the roles and practices of a host, leaders can inspire trust and commitment, creating a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.


In essence, the Host Leadership model champions a participatory, inclusive, and adaptable approach to leadership. It encourages leaders to think of themselves as hosts in a vast, interconnected community, where their primary task is to facilitate connections, nurture talents, and create spaces where meaningful collaboration and change can occur. This perspective is relevant and essential in today’s complex and fast-paced world, offering a path forward for those willing to embrace a new paradigm of leadership that is both ancient in its wisdom and innovative in its application.


Join us for the Host Leadership Gatherings!

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Sources

  1. McKergow, M., & Bailey, H. (2014). “THE SIX ROLES OF ENGAGEMENT – HR Review UK.docx.” https://www.hrreview.co.uk/analysis/analysis-hr-news/mark-mckergow-and-helen-bailey-the-six-new-roles-of-engagement/54146
  1. McKergow, M. (2020). Hosting Generative Change. Creating Containers for Creativity and Commitment. BMI series in Dialogic Organisational Development.
  1. McKergow, M.(2023). Ideas for Leaders Online Host Leadership Course
  1. Burnett, N., & Pascoe, J. (2015). “Getting the Balance Right – a new metaphor for school leaders.” Principia, Term 4.
  1. OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT [Large language model]. /g/g-DvcRDmhSl-the-host-leadership-assistant*

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*We are currently creating a Host Leadership GPT.  This involves utilising what has been published and personal correspondence with Dr Mark McKergow.  At present, it is being tested in a private GPT.  This blog used the database of uploaded information and has been edited to make responses fit for purpose.  Please let us know if you enjoy the content by liking the post or emailing us at hello@enactive.com.au.  We hope to create a Host Leadership Assistant that will be useful for leaders exploring the model and metaphor of Host.

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