Leadership isn’t just about managing people or pushing business goals. It’s about connecting with individuals, understanding their values, and nurturing growth within a shared vision. In the ‘People and Purpose’ podcast featuring Hervé Colleaux, a purpose-led leader and Partner at Borderless Executive Search, Hervé shared his thoughts on the evolving role of leadership, the importance of sustainability, and the values that guide his approach to both work and life.
Borderless Executive Search stands out not only for its global reach but also for its values-driven approach to leadership and recruitment. The firm has earned recognition by notably achieving an EcoVadis rating, a first in its industry. As Hervé puts it, Borderless is about cultivating authentic, people-centered relationships that transcend borders, placing just as much importance on values and leadership style as on technical capabilities.
Authenticity and human connection at the core
The discussion unfolds against the cultural backdrop of France and the Netherlands, two nations with different yet equally impactful leadership philosophies. From France’s hierarchical corporate structures to the Dutch preference for pragmatism and consensus, Hervé reflects on how living and working across these cultures has shaped his outlook. At the heart of it all, he believes, is the authenticity and human connection.
Hervé is a French native who has lived in the UK and Belgium, and for the past six years, he has been residing in the Netherlands. His cross-cultural experiences are deeply embedded in the DNA of Borderless, offering a fresh perspective on what it truly means to lead with purpose in a global world.
“We strongly believe that diversity is key, and will bring this richness to any organization. That’s a strong belief. That’s part of our DNA, that’s part of our ways of working as well,” he emphasizes.
Leading with purpose
“Leadership today is really about finding and empowering the best leaders, those who align with purpose and values, no matter where they are from,” he explains.
Hervé doesn’t see leadership as a one-size-fits-all concept. While some may have a natural gift for leading, he points out that it is a skill that can and should be cultivated. For Hervé, true leadership begins with a solid foundation of purpose and values, which guide decisions even when the world around us is constantly changing.
Central to Hervé’s perspective is his belief that values are what hold everything together, especially when circumstances get tough. He insists that while performance is vital, the underlying principles are the ones that sustain leadership in the long run. A good leader, in his eyes, remains grounded in these values and adapts to change with the same sense of integrity.
The heart of diversity and sustainability
For Hervé, true sustainability is a way of life that goes far beyond environmental impact that creates a workplace culture where people feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best.
In addition, Hervé points out that diversity enriches the organization. Having different nationalities or perspectives in the room and embracing those differences and fostering an environment where everyone feels heard, valued, and included is of paramount importance. This belief in diversity is woven deeply into Borderless’ culture, guiding not only how they operate but also how they build relationships with clients, candidates, and one another.
“We believe that beyond policies, people and their attitude, their behavior, authenticity will bring the right diversity. We are keen to promote that idea that you know leaders taking care about people and, and of course long-term relationship,” he explains.
Another area where Hervé’s leadership style focuses on is his approach to kindness. While kindness is often seen as soft or compromising, Hervé views it differently. He believes that kindness in leadership isn’t about leniency; it’s about being demanding when necessary but always with respect for the person behind the work.
“Kindness for me is not to be lenient or to find the compromise or to compromise the high performance. No, we need to be demanding on the performance – that’s the world today.”
Hervé doesn’t believe in compromising on high standards, yet he is equally adamant that people must feel supported in their pursuit of excellence. Leadership means pushing for the best outcomes while creating an environment where people feel motivated to meet those expectations.
Leadership as a personal commitment
According to Hervé, leadership is not confined to the boardroom. It is a personal commitment. In fact, much of his career, he says, has been shaped by the desire to provide a strong foundation for his family, his wife and three daughters. He spoke openly about the deep commitment he has to his daughters and how he hopes to pass on something meaningful to them as they grow.
“I want them to have a good start. I want them to be happy, whatever is happiness. By the way, we could have another episode on that!” Hervé says candidly.
This personal commitment isn’t just about legacy; it’s about ensuring the values that have guided Hervé’s journey continue to impact the next generation. It is a reminder that leadership, at its core, is about people – whether they’re team members, clients, or loved ones. Hervé’s approach blends his professional and personal worlds, creating a vision of leadership that goes beyond the usual metrics of success.
The power of people-first leadership
As Hervé shared, leadership should be centered on people, and this principle is the cornerstone of his approach to guiding teams and businesses. Creating an environment where people feel respected, supported, and empowered to do their best work in the long-term.
What Hervé emphasized is that leadership isn’t about chasing short-term results. It’s about nurturing long-term relationships and fostering a culture that thrives on mutual respect and shared purpose. When people feel valued, they will give their best and that, in return, leads to a more successful and sustainable future for everyone involved.
The true meaning of leadership
The conversation with Hervé leaves us with a powerful reminder of what leadership is truly about. Beyond meeting quotas or achieving financial goals, true leadership is about guiding people with integrity, purpose, and a deep respect for their individuality and growth. As the world around us continues to change, leaders who can stay true to their values, embrace diversity, and prioritize people will be the ones who build sustainable and successful futures.
“It’s all about people – putting it very short. Exactly that.” Tarja agreed. “Thank you, Hervé, for sharing these valuable insights. Stay purposeful and lead with values!” Tarja urged the listeners as she wrapped up the episode.
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If you are a leader who wishes to reflect on a purposeful and value-driven approach, please reach out to Tarja Takko, CEO of Takko Advisory at tarja@takkoadvisory.com for guidance in leading with purpose.
