Leading with Generosity

Leading with Generosity: Reflections on a joint event of women’s networks at the University of Bath

Photograph showing participants at the networking event — Participants at the 'generous leadership' event.

Our recent joint event of the Women Academics Change Agents (WACA) Network and Senior Professional Women’s Leadership Network brought together colleagues from across the university to explore generous leadership; what it looks like, how it feels, and why it matters.

We heard from two inspiring speakers: Fiona Gillison, Deputy Dean in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, and Corinne Evans, Executive Director (External Relations). Both shared honest reflections on moments when they had witnessed, or experienced, generous leadership in action.

For Corinne, generous leadership is about generosity of time and knowledge: people sharing networks, creating space for others to grow, and working in teams where it’s okay not to have all the answers. Fiona spoke about the value of a no-blame culture — recognising that things sometimes go wrong, but that leaders can model accountability and constructive problem-solving in putting them right, and own, rather than distancing themselves from tough decisions.

Both agreed that leadership is a journey of learning and humility. Fiona emphasised the importance of being willing to be wrong and of having a “wing person” to help you keep perspective. Corinne reflected that her biggest periods of growth have come from mistakes or working through difficult situations. For her, understanding her own leadership style, how you make decisions and communicate, helps you lead and connect more effectively.

The discussion also touched on gender and confidence. Corinne noted how often women preface their contributions in meetings with phrases like “I might be wrong...” or “This might just be me but...” Her advice was clear: don’t apologise for your presence.

Lizzie Little and Kate Elliot from the Centre for Coaching & Leadership presented a model of generous leadership that represents a progressive and human-centred model of leadership increasingly recognized across academia. Generous leadership contrasts with hierarchical or managerial approaches by prioritising collective success over individual advancement. In the university context, where collegiality, research excellence, and student experience intersect, generous leadership fosters environments where staff and students feel valued, supported, and empowered to contribute meaningfully.

Participants at the event explored a framework for generous leadership that requires authenticity, empathy and adaptability to deliver results. Through conversations at our (sweet-themed 😊) discussion tables, we reflected on what it means to act with purpose, show genuine care, and stay flexible in a fast-changing environment. A key takeaway was that generous leadership isn’t about giving endlessly of yourself — it’s about offering timely and appropriate attention, that is context-dependent, and support in ways that empower others. It’s about listening more than talking, embracing vulnerability, and always asking: what’s the kind and generous thing to do in this situation?

This first joint networking event sparked rich, open conversations about leadership, learning, and the challenges women continue to face in higher education. If the energy in the room was any indication, it certainly won’t be the last.

Posted in: Events

women academics, women in academia, women leaders, Women networking

Respond

Click here to cancel reply.

Women Academics Change Agents Network

Subscribe to Women Academics Change Agents Network

Respond

Read next

Gender pay gap - is it closing at Bath?

Barriers and Enablers to Leadership Roles

Getting Started With Promotion!