The Executive Leadership Program: Cultivating High-Performing Teams & Cultures, presented in partnership with Heidrick & Struggles, concluded its final session of the year last week. Designed to prepare participants for future leadership roles across the energy sector, the program focuses on developing strategic thinking, communication, and team-building skills essential to executive success.
The closing session centered on executive communication and engaging effectively with boards and leadership teams. Facilitators Doug Orr and Laura Gironda of Heidrick & Struggles led discussions highlighting the nuances of board and executive relationships, emphasizing influence, trust, and the balance between professional and personal dynamics. Participants explored how understanding their audience, communicating clearly, and preparing intentionally can strengthen leadership presence and organizational impact.
Participants also heard from guest speakers Paula Harris and J. Michael Anderson, both respected members of energy industry boards, who shared insights from their own leadership experiences.
“The way information flows between leadership and the board can make or break decision-making,” said Anderson. “Private and public boards operate differently, but both rely on clear, timely communication. Too often, information is delivered too late or buried under unnecessary detail.”
Harris added, “Some people want constant, ongoing conversations; others only engage during board meetings. A good leader learns how to adjust to both.”
As the year came to a close, participants reflected on how the program has shaped their leadership growth.
“Fear of uncertainty can paralyze people, so there needs to be opportunities for open discussion,” one participant shared. “It all centers around the culture you build. If you’re not transparent, people will fill in the blanks with their own assumptions. You can’t lead in a vacuum.”
Another reflected on the importance of listening and curiosity: “There’s real power in saying, ‘Say more.’ It opens the door for context and understanding.”
Participants from all Executive Leadership Program tracks will gather for a joint graduation on January 14, 2026, hosted by the Emerging Executives Committee at HMH in Houston.
Registration is now open for the 2026 Executive Leadership Programs. For more information about Energy Workforce training programs, contact Vice President, Programs & Events, Peggy Helfert.
Peggy Helfert, Vice President Programs & Events, writes about the Energy Workforce’s sector-specific best practices and leadership. Click here to subscribe to the Energy Workforce newsletter, which highlights sector-specific issues, best practices, activities and more.
