Limerick-led study reveals worries among potential business leaders over work-life balance

The study, conducted by UL's Kemmy Business School and funded by ICBE Business Excellence Skillnet, surveyed over 550 professionals and uncovered that nearly a third of respondents were reluctant to pursue leadership positions, despite possessing the skills and ambition to do so.

The top concern identified by 27 pc of participants was the impact that senior leadership roles would have on their personal lives.

The findings, published in the report Answering the Call to Lead: Future Leader Perceptions, Motivations, Skills and Needs, reveal that the traditional notion of work-life balance is evolving, with both men and women expressing similar concerns about balancing family, health, and well-being with professional responsibilities.

The report also highlights the "dark side of leadership," with many participants acknowledging the potential risks involved in senior roles.

Concerns included the professional, reputational, and personal risks associated with high-stakes leadership. Over 70% of respondents described leadership as "risky," with fears of stress, loneliness, and political conflict prevalent among future leaders.

Additionally, 90% of respondents stressed that the performance of their teams would be crucial to their success, which added further pressure to the already demanding nature of leadership.

However, the report also outlines practical steps for organisations to better support their future leaders.

The study notes the importance of current leaders demonstrating that a sustainable work-life balance is achievable, even at the top.

The study found that while many were reluctant to step up immediately, a significant number were still open to leadership roles in the future. 28 pc of respondents said they are ready to take on leadership roles this year, while 45 pc hoped to do so within the next five years.

Professor Finbarr Murphy, Executive Dean of Kemmy Business School, stated: "This research provides valuable insights into the mindset of future leaders, and it will help us tailor our education and upskilling programs to support those who are ready to lead, as well as those who are not quite there yet."

Associate Professor Sarah Kieran, Assistant Dean for Executive and Professional Education at UL, added: "Leadership should be an exciting prospect, not a daunting one. It's critical to understand why some are ready to lead and others aren't, despite their capabilities. This insight is key for Ireland's future competitiveness."

Vivienne Kiernan, ICBE Head of Client Engagement, highlighted the urgency of addressing these concerns: "If a significant portion of high-potential leaders are reluctant to step up, organisations will face serious leadership gaps in the coming years."

Dave Flynn, Director of Business Networks at Skillnet Ireland, echoed the importance of continued investment in leadership development. "This generation of leaders is shaping a new, more balanced approach to leadership. It's essential that we continue to provide upskilling opportunities that meet the evolving demands of leadership across all sectors."

The report was officially launched at an event hosted by ICBE Business Excellence Skillnet and the Kemmy Business School at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Limerick on Thursday.