Long Game Leadership with John McMorris

In this thought-provoking episode of Leaders in Business, Marlene Lowe sits down with John McMorris, Director of Business Development at the Scottish Qualifications Authority, for a conversation that traverses continents, career paths, and the deeper purpose of leadership. From the semiconductor floors of Japan to the educational corridors of Sri Lanka, John’s journey is defined by curiosity, adaptability, and a profound respect for culture.

What unfolds is a masterclass in global business development—anchored not just in strategy, but in humanity. John shares how honour, presence, and long-term thinking have shaped his approach to leadership and helped forge trust across borders. He speaks candidly about the tensions between risk and growth, the subtle art of cultural integration, and why education must be seen as a global currency—one that empowers movement, opportunity, and equity.

This episode is rich with insight for anyone who leads, who learns, or who believes in building something that will outlast them. With humility and clarity, John reflects on the responsibilities of being a director, the lessons he’s drawn from global travel, and the joy of watching small ideas become legacy projects.

If you’ve ever wondered how to lead across cultures, bridge business with meaning, or plant seeds you may never see bloom—this one’s for you.

In each episode, we sit down with trailblazers who have made their mark and revolutionized their respective industries. From CEOs of global corporations to startup founders disrupting traditional business models, we uncover the secrets to their success.Gain exclusive access to their personal journeys and discover the challenges they faced along the way. Our guests generously share their wisdom, revealing the innovative tactics, leadership principles, and growth strategies that propelled them to the top. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business professional, or simply an avid learner, this podcast is your gateway to invaluable insights and inspiration.Dive deep into thought-provoking conversations that cover a wide range of topics. From building effective teams and fostering a culture of innovation to navigating industry disruptions and staying ahead of the curve, our guests tackle the most pressing issues facing today's businesses.The 'Leaders in Business' podcast goes beyond surface-level discussions. We explore the intricacies of decision-making, explore the psychology of leadership, and uncover the traits that set exceptional leaders apart. Discover how they've overcome obstacles, harnessed their creativity, and created lasting impact in their organizations.Each episode is expertly crafted to provide actionable takeaways that you can apply to your own professional journey. You'll gain practical tips and strategies to optimize your leadership skills, enhance your business acumen, and drive meaningful results. Whether you're looking to sharpen your marketing strategies, improve your negotiation skills, or cultivate a winning mindset, 'Leaders in Business' has got you covered.Tune in regularly to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and insights shaping the business landscape. Our host skillfully guides the conversations, drawing out the most valuable lessons from our esteemed guests. Expect engaging dialogues that captivate your attention and leave you inspired to take your own business endeavors to new heights.🎙️🎙️🎙️Your hosts, National Director for Scotland, Catherine McWilliam, and Fife & Tayside Committee Chair, Marlene Lowe, guide you through these enlightening discussions.🎙️🎙️🎙️If you aspire to be a part of the IoD, visit www.iod.com for more information. Engage with us on Twitter and connect on LinkedIn to share your thoughts on today's episode.🎵 Music: 'Downtown Delight' and 'Cinematic Emotion' by Joystock.🕴️ This podcast is managed by The Emerald Agency.

• No. of episodes: 69
• Latest episode: 2025-05-27
• Business Careers Entrepreneurship

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