Leadership for Digital Transformation: Navigating the Journey (Digital Transformation and Innovation)

This book focuses on innovative leadership in change management amid digital business transformation. By combining theoretical insights with practical guidance, case studies, and a transdisciplinary approach, it not only provides up-to-date insights for researchers but also equips leaders with the skills, knowledge, and tools necessary to successfully guide their organisations through the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. It primarily emphasises placing human considerations at the forefront of discussions regarding digital transformation.

The book features contributions that tackle essential topics, such as developing a digital mindset, the psychological challenges of digital transformation, and innovative leadership roles, addressing specific areas such as small and medium-sized companies, the creative industry, family-run businesses, and aspects of the Gen Z generation. It emphasises the use of innovative technologies such as AI to explore diverse perspectives on risk-taking, responsible leadership, building a resilience culture, international views on managing digitalisation, and the strategic use of communication in digital change processes. Under the three focus areas ’Success Factors and Innovative Leadership in Digital Change Management,’ ’Digital Transformation in Counterpoint to Conventional Methods,’ and ’Leadership Mindset for Digital Transformation,’ it transcends conventional literature by offering a transdisciplinary investigation of leadership in the digital age, revealing crucial perspectives, and delivering actionable strategies to meet the evolving challenges of organisational change.

This volume provides valuable insights and knowledge tailored for professionals in business and management but is equally beneficial for researchers and students aiming to deepen their theoretical understanding. Additionally, it offers practical guidance and real-world case studies to support consultants, entrepreneurs, and policymakers alike.

Kristina Bodrožić-Brnić, who holds a Master’s degree in Modern Sinology and East Asian Art History from Heidelberg University, has extensive experience in adult education and digitalisation. Currently involved with the Mittelstand-Digital Zentrum Zukunftskultur, she aids in enhancing corporate culture within the digital landscape. In addition, her work at the Institute for Digital Transformation and Innovation (IDTI) at the BSP Business and Law School in Berlin includes workshops that leverage her practical expertise.

Prof. Dr. Volker Schulte studied law, history, social sciences, and education at the Universities of Tübingen, Bochum, Göttingen and New York (Fulbright Scholarship). He holds a doctorate in political science and is a professor of health management, human resources management and leadership at the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland. Schulte served for several years as Vice Director of Health Promotion Switzerland and as a lecturer at various universities. He is currently heading an international research project on mindful leadership and resilience in Chile.

Prof. Dr. Thomas Thiessen is noted for his leadership roles bridging academia and business, particularly his contributions to the BSP Business School in Berlin, which he led and developed. His work primarily focuses on digital transformation in SMEs, sustainable corporate culture, and creative industry evolution. Holding a doctorate in Media Studies, Thiessen has chaired the Scientific Advisory Board at BSP since April 2023 and currently leads the Institute for Digital Transformation and Innovation, managing third-party funded projects like the Mittelstand-Digital Zentrum Zukunftskultur.