718: Leading Through Culture - Ken Wilcox

What truly shapes a thriving organization—clever strategy or meaningful culture?

In this powerful conversation, host Denis Gianoutsos is joined by Ken Wilcox, former CEO of Silicon Valley Bank and author of Leading Through Culture. With a background in philosophy and a career that spanned from Silicon Valley to Shanghai, Ken shares how leadership rooted in values and emotional intelligence can outperform even the sharpest strategic plans.

Denis and Ken explore the challenges of launching a bank in China, the cultural dynamics that shape leadership styles, and why leaders must walk the talk to build teams that thrive. From Theory X vs. Theory Y to real-world examples of cross-functional collaboration, this discussion offers practical insights and timeless principles.

Tune in to hear a thought-provoking exchange that redefines leadership—and invites you to lead with both head and heart.

From Academia to the Boardroom

• Passion for philosophy shaped his worldview
• Pivoted from teaching to banking during inflation
• Moved to Silicon Valley to fuel tech innovation
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Building a Bank in China: “One Bed, Two Dreams”

• Led a joint venture with the Chinese government
• Faced cultural and political complexities
• Gained deep respect for Chinese business culture

Leading Through Culture: Legacy of His Father’s Lessons

• Inspired by his dad’s leadership teachings
• Built culture around motivation and meaning
• Leaders must intentionally design culture

Heart Over Mind: Culture That Drives Performance

• Culture trumps strategy in impact
• Fostered horizontal, team-based collaboration
• Reinforced values through actions and rewards

What Makes a Great Leader: Lessons from Lincoln

• Lincoln embodied humility and vision
• Embraced disagreement to make better decisions
• Great leaders inspire with purpose

The Future of Leadership in a Polarized World

• Global shifts are reshaping leadership
• People now seek protection, not just inspiration
• Leaders must model behavior and stay curious

Key Quotes:

"Strategy speaks to the mind, but culture speaks to the heart." - Ken Wilcox

"Every organization has a culture—whether they want to or not." - Ken Wilcox

Book a Strategy Call with Denis https://app.leadingchangepartners.com/widget/bookings/callwithdenisgianoutsos

The 10 Proven Ways to Lead and Thrive in Today's World 

Executive Guide Featuring 10 Key Themes and 42 Strategic Insights from Worldwide Leaders 

https://crm.leadingchangepartners.com/10-ways-to-lead 

Connect with Ken:

Website: https://kenwilcoxauthor.com/books/leading-through-culture/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenwilcoxsvb/

Connect with Denis:

Email: [e-mail]

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