When crises strike—whether a pandemic, economic downturn, or organizational shake-up—leaders face a defining choice: freeze under pressure or rise with clarity. For Bren James Manlangit, a finance director and Certified Management Accountant (Australia), who once managed a ₱100 million corporate budget, the key to effective crisis leadership boils down to calm planning, smart prioritization, and empathy.
“I stay effective by prioritizing my tasks, maintaining a calm demeanor, and focusing on solutions rather than problems,” Manlangit told Financial Adviser PH.
This mindset proved essential when he was leading a global project under immense time pressure. “We needed to finish the project for compliance. I spent much time planning and prioritizing tasks so we could efficiently meet the deadline.”
Focus on the ‘Why’—and Communicate It
In uncertain times, teams don’t just need direction—they need purpose. That’s where great leaders lean in.
“I ensure that the team understands the why behind their work,” Manlangit said. “I want them to know their contribution matters.”
Whether facing organizational shifts or market disruptions, aligning the team around a shared purpose builds resilience and trust—two crucial ingredients during any crisis.
Balance Empathy with Decisiveness
Not all decisions during a crisis will be popular. Manlangit shared that one of the most difficult moments in his leadership journey was letting someone go.
“It impacted people’s lives,” he admitted. “But it was necessary for the organization’s long-term success.”
His takeaway? Crisis leadership means being honest, decisive, and human—especially when making tough calls.
Stay Grounded with Practical Systems
In chaos, structure is everything. Manlangit keeps it simple: “I use calendars, planners, and I write down all my tasks to organize my day-to-day activities.” He also recommends removing distractions and setting clear boundaries between work and personal time.
Final Thought
When the pressure’s on, the best leaders aren’t the loudest or most reactive—they’re the most thoughtful. They prioritize effectively, communicate clearly, and lead with empathy. In Manlangit’s case, these principles helped him navigate not just crises—but a career path to the C-suite.
