On April 23, 2025, The Washington Post launched its new leadership-focused forum, The ‘Ship, designed to explore the evolving nature of governance and institutional leadership amid global economic instability and rising geopolitical tensions. The inaugural event convened high-profile figures from finance, journalism, and public policy, sparking cross-sector dialogue on what it means to lead effectively in an era of uncertainty.
Held in Washington, D.C., the event brought together decision-makers, thought leaders, and public servants for a series of moderated discussions that examined transparency, resilience, and adaptability in governance and business leadership.
Leadership in a Volatile Global Landscape
A keynote address by Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank, set the tone for the day’s proceedings. Lagarde emphasized the importance of data-driven policy and transparent governance as central tools for maintaining institutional trust and economic stability.
In response to recent global trade shifts—including widespread tariffs imposed by the U.S. and countermeasures by other nations—Lagarde warned of the uneven impacts of economic nationalism. “Protectionist policies often hurt those least equipped to absorb the shock,” she noted. “Leadership must balance domestic interests with global interdependence.”
She also touched on the critical need for central banks to remain politically independent and grounded in evidence-based frameworks, especially as public pressure and misinformation campaigns grow more intense.
Lessons from Sport and Culture
In a dynamic shift from economic policy, journalist and author Sally Jenkins contributed insights on leadership through adversity, drawing analogies between elite athletic performance and executive decision-making. Jenkins, a seasoned columnist who has profiled some of the world’s top athletes, argued that the best leaders—like the best athletes—are distinguished by their mental resilience, discipline, and clarity under pressure.
She highlighted how effective leaders, much like athletes, must train for high-stakes moments, develop trust within their teams, and make decisions quickly with incomplete information—traits increasingly necessary amid today’s turbulent political and corporate environments.
Inclusive Leadership and Mentorship
Several sessions centered on inclusive leadership and mentorship as critical tools for navigating the complex challenges of modern governance. Panelists discussed how diverse leadership teams foster innovation, increase legitimacy, and improve organizational performance.
Executives and civic leaders shared personal experiences of mentorship—both giving and receiving—and stressed the importance of access to opportunity in cultivating the next generation of public and private sector leaders.
“Mentorship is not just a ladder; it’s a lifeline,” one panelist said, noting that sustainable leadership requires building a pipeline of successors who reflect the populations they serve.
A Call for Adaptive, Values-Based Governance
A recurring theme throughout the event was the need for adaptive leadership that is both principled and flexible. Speakers argued that the speed and scope of current challenges—from climate change to digital misinformation to shifting labor markets—demand leaders who can move beyond legacy playbooks and engage stakeholders with empathy and foresight.
The event also highlighted the fragility of democratic institutions and the importance of civic engagement in preserving governance norms. Amid growing polarization in the U.S. and abroad, participants stressed the role of journalism, education, and public discourse in maintaining an informed and active citizenry.
Looking Ahead: ‘The ‘Ship’ as a Leadership Platform
The Washington Post plans to continue The ‘Ship series throughout 2025, hosting additional forums focused on leadership in sectors such as technology, health care, defense, and education. The initiative aims to create a recurring space for diverse perspectives on governance, ethics, and organizational strategy.
As global uncertainties persist, The ‘Ship is positioned to serve as both a platform for dialogue and a barometer of the evolving standards for effective leadership in the 21st century.
