Leadership today is evolving—and it’s not about titles or power. For finance leader and Certified Management Accountant (Australia), Michelle Maralit, the ability to influence, inspire, and guide with empathy is what truly defines strong leadership in modern workplaces.
“Leadership today is no longer about authority—it’s about influence, vision, and the ability to inspire people,” Michelle told Financial Adviser PH. “You need to be able to make tough decisions while also supporting and empowering your team.”
With years of experience navigating finance, strategic planning, and team management, Michelle has seen how leadership must go beyond spreadsheets and command structures. It requires clarity of purpose, emotional intelligence, and the ability to connect with others.
“For me, leadership is about setting a clear vision, guiding people toward that goal, and making sure they feel valued and motivated along the way,” she explained. “It’s also about accountability—leading by example and ensuring that you uphold the same standards you expect from others.”
This blend of strategy and empathy isn’t just a feel-good approach—it’s a practical one. In high-performing teams, employees who feel heard, seen, and trusted are more likely to contribute meaningfully and stay engaged.
Michelle also emphasizes that today’s best leaders don’t rely on authority to command respect—they earn it by building trust, listening actively, and empowering people to grow. “People perform better when they feel valued and supported,” she said. “That’s why I always make an effort to acknowledge their contributions and provide opportunities for growth.”
The bottom line? The most effective leaders today aren’t those with the loudest voice or the highest rank—they’re the ones who lead with clarity, compassion, and confidence. As Michelle demonstrates, influence-driven leadership isn’t just the future—it’s what’s needed now to build stronger teams and smarter organizations.
