Forecast 2021: Is culture the new superhero?

In our Forecast 2021 podcast series, we’re focused on offering insights to help you better understand and manage some of the opportunities and challenges that your company might face—think policy, technology, and other big picture topics. 

This week we discuss how organizational culture is at the forefront of leadership agendas across the globe. Christopher Hannegan, a principal in PwC’s Organization and Workforce Transformation group, and Gus Giacoman, a partner in PwC’s Strategy&, sat down with host Heather Horn to provide practical advice for CFOs on the benefits of understanding and managing their organizational cultures.

Topics include:

• 1:12 - Setting the stage. Christopher and Gus open with a discussion on how organizational culture has adapted to becoming more innovative, nimble, and agile. They highlight the observable gaps in the cultural views of executives and their employees.
• 13:30 - Defining “culture.” Our guests define four pillars that comprise culture - thinking, feeling, believing, and behaving. Behaviors change organizations and evolve cultures; defining those behaviors can increase innovation and agility. 
• 18:05 - 2021 Global culture survey findings. PwC surveyed over 3,200 people in over 50 countries - Christopher and Gus discuss the impact of the pandemic on culture and performance.
• 24:14 - Influence within. Our guests encourage leaders to think of how they want to evolve their businesses, and suggest empowering their people to speak up.
• 28:38 - Advantages of a strong culture. Culture proved it could be a source of competitive advantage during the pandemic. But can you change the culture you have? Christopher and Gus discuss how to shape your culture to realize your business strategy.  
• 38:52 - Inclusion. Be vulnerable as a leader and have empathy. Christopher explains the power in knowing your people.
• 43:56 - Key takeaways. Christopher and Gus share their advice for leaders.

Want to learn more? Read our Global culture survey report 2021 and listen to our Podcast Forecast 2021: How to make hybrid work, work.

Christopher Hannegan, is a principal in PwC’s Organization and Workforce Transformation group, focusing on helping C-suite leaders execute business strategy, accomplish transformational change, and shift cultures to be higher performing.

Gus Giacoman, is a partner in PwC’s Strategy& specializing in business transformation for profitable growth. He helps clients restructure their organizations and cost structure so they put their money where their strategy is.

Heather Horn is PwC’s National Office thought leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series, as well as periodic webcasts for the power and utilities industry. With nearly 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.