Being an Undefended System Leader

Workshop information

Navigate complexity and lead across boundaries

Today’s leadership challenges rarely fit within neat silos and most leaders will need to lead across complex and ambiguous systems. To do this well they typically have to differentiate between different types of problems, to consider the impact that the system is having on them and their behaviours, and to be more attuned to their own stage of development and what this means for how they interact with others.

Successful system leaders are also likely to have a leadership presence with the capacity to bring vulnerability, compassion, empathy and curiosity into dialogue with system partners. A willingness to see the truth of multiple perspectives, to be wrong, to make mistakes, even to fail, in the interests of experimentation and learning.

Part of the Collaborating and Influencing practices of the practive8 model, this three-hour session explores what is required to become an undefended systems leader, to gain clarity in complexity and make decisions that create long-term impact.

Why system leadership matters

In an interconnected world, leaders need to see the bigger picture and understand how different elements influence each other. Leaders who can lead in systems can:

  • Identify root causes of challenges rather than treating symptoms.
  • Develop new ideas for solving complex problems.
  • Break down silos and foster collaboration across teams and organisations.

As Peter Senge, author of The Fifth Discipline, said, “Today’s problems come from yesterday’s solutions.”

Workshop features for maximum impact

  1. Being aware of, and managing, your tendency to system blindness and how the pressures of a system can cause you to fall out of relationship with others.
  2. Understanding and developing your current way of “meaning making” as a leader; its strengths and development areas.
  3. Understanding and developing your approach to solving different types of problems.
  4. Becoming more aware of your whole self: your values, purpose, strengths and crucially your shadow side. Understanding how your drives and defense mechanisms might trip you up as a system leader.

Who is this workshop for?

This workshop is ideal for senior leaders, project managers, and team leads navigating complexity and cross-functional collaboration. It’s particularly valuable for those driving organisational change or managing diverse stakeholder groups.

Why choose practive8?

  • Proven expertise: Trusted by organisations across sectors to help leaders tackle complex challenges.
  • Practical and engaging: Our workshops provide tools participants can apply immediately to real-world issues.
  • Skilled facilitators: Facilitators create realistic scenarios, ensuring dynamic and impactful learning.

Take the next step

Contact us to book your session and give your leaders the tools to navigate complexity and lead across boundaries with confidence.

Pricing information

We offer two flexible options to suit your team:

  • Small Cohort (8–11 participants): £3,600 per session
  • Large Cohort (12–16 participants): £4,100 per session

If you’re booking multiple workshops, we offer discounted rates. Get in touch, and we’ll provide a pricing plan that works for you.

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Grounding

Leadership starts from within. Grounding means staying true to your values, reflecting on your impact, and leading with intention. It’s about knowing yourself so you can show up as the best version of you – authentic, calm, and clear. When you’re grounded, you create space for others to feel secure, focused, and ready to take on what’s next.

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Empowering others is what makes leadership sustainable. It’s about setting clear expectations, giving people the tools to succeed, and holding them accountable. But it’s also about celebrating their wins and showing them what’s possible. When you empower others, you create a culture of confidence and momentum. Everyone grows, and the whole team benefits.

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•  Coaching for Growth
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Collaborating

Collaboration turns good teams into great ones. It’s about creating trust, building alignment, and making sure everyone’s rowing in the same direction. As a leader, you set the tone for teamwork. When people feel valued and clear on their role, they don’t just work better – they work together.
Dive into our workshops to strengthen teamwork and alignment in your organisation.

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Coaching

Coaching is one of the most powerful ways to lead. It’s not about having all the answers – it’s about asking the right questions. By giving feedback that’s honest and actionable, you help others discover their strengths and take the next step. When you invest in someone’s growth, you’re not just helping them improve – you’re showing them you believe in what they can achieve.
Check out the Coaching workshops we offer to help you guide others to their full potential.
•  Coaching for Growth
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Inspiring

Inspiration is contagious. As a leader, it’s your ability to connect with and inspire others that turns ideas into action. Whether it’s sharing your vision or championing their potential, inspiring others is about creating a spark. When you lead with passion and authenticity, you don’t just motivate people – you help them see what’s possible and want to be part of it.
Explore our Inspiring workshops to ignite your leadership and bring your vision to life.
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Thriving

Pressure is part of the job, but thriving under it? That’s where great leaders stand out. Thriving means staying calm, keeping your balance, and creating a positive environment – even when the stakes are high. It’s about modelling resilience and helping others stay focused and optimistic. When you thrive, you set the tone for everyone to do their best work.
Take a look at our workshops to build resilience and create environments where everyone can flourish.
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Influencing

Influencing isn’t about authority or persuasion – it’s about connection. Whether you’re negotiating, collaborating, or simply finding common ground, with influence you can create momentum and inspire others to move forward together.
Discover the workshops that can help you strengthen your ability to build alignment and drive collaboration.

•  Influence and Negotiate
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Communicating

Clear communication is at the heart of great leadership. It’s not just about getting your message across – it’s about making it count. When you share what truly matters, in a way that’s authentic and easy to understand, people listen. Better yet, they act. By saying the right things in the right way, you build trust, inspire confidence, and set the stage for meaningful action.

Explore our workshops designed to help you develop the skills that bring your messages to life.

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