“The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader provides a clear and practical guide for leading through uncertainty and disruption. With a focus on crisis management, Prof Bawany offers strategies for leaders to navigate and transform their organizations in the face of major challenges, regardless of the circumstances.
Prof Bawany emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and proactive planning, making this book essential for leaders at all levels. Through real-world examples and actionable insights, this book will equip readers with the skills to turn crises into opportunities for growth and transformation. This is a must-read for anyone leading in today’s unpredictable environment.”
Dr. Marshall Goldsmith
Dr. Marshall Goldsmith is the Thinkers50 #1 Executive Coach and New York Times bestselling author of The Earned Life, Triggers, and What Got You Here Won’t Get You There.
“The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader is a timely, well-researched, and comprehensive examination of leadership when it matters the most. Written with the sense of urgency that the context demands, Dr. Bawany offers a memorable model, practical advice, and relevant case studies to guide leaders at all levels. This book should not just be read; it should be used to guide you when serious problems such as crises require immediate action.”
Dr. Jim Kouzes
Co-author of the bestselling The Leadership Challenge and a Fellow of the Doerr Institute for New Leaders, Rice University
“The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” is a how-to guide for leaders at all levels as they navigate the challenges in today’s complex ever-changing world. The book provides practical tools for leaders during times of crisis and clearly demonstrates the need to develop c-suite muscle memory to be ready to respond quickly and effectively when a crisis arises. The book is also like having your own professional executive coach at your side. A must-read for all executives!”
The Honorable Chip Fulghum
Retired Col USAF and Former CFO and Deputy Undersecretary of Management at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Current CEO of Endeavors
“One of the major challenges faced by contemporary organizations is to safeguard them in the event of a crisis. Crises originate in both the macroeconomic and global conditions on which the enterprise has no direct effect and which, when they arise, affect the business of the enterprise.
A crisis can thus disturb the balance of an enterprise. Fortunately, there are best practices tools, competencies to be adopted, and perspectives that leaders can use to steer their organizations during these difficult times, and these are found in the C.R.I.S.I.S. Leadership Model as expounded in Prof Sattar Bawany’s latest book. The model provides businesses with the strategies to navigate unprecedented challenges while operating in a global environment that is increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous and disruptive (VUCAD). A must-read for leaders across diverse organizations.”
Pascal Bonet
Board Member, IAC – Intelligent Automation Advisory, Award-winning expert in AI and Automation and author of the best-seller books “Intelligent Automation” and “Irreplaceable”.
“Crisis Management and leadership is more relevant and essential today as it ever has been. It is an understatement to say that the disruption we see today is more impactful and profound that what we have experienced in the past. It is at times like these that clarity of mind, confidence and decisiveness is required. Prof Bawany provides exactly that in this book – breaking down complex puzzles into a smaller solvable challenge and laying out the roadmap how leaders can tackle these challenges. The tools suggested are practical, relevant and effective – coming from years of real-life experience and application.
The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader – essential read for Crisis management.”
Ban-Seng Teh
Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Seagate Technology LLC, CA
“I finished Prof Bawany’s ‘The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader’ on a flight to Europe and left the plane feeling both uncomfortable and assured. Prof Bawany succinctly raised the serious challenges posed by future crises facing all of us and also outlined powerful frameworks to address them. I would recommend this book to those struggling to make sense of an increasingly complex world and how we can navigate it successfully.”
Alizakri Alias
Board member, Petronas Dagangan and PruBSN Takaful and Trustee of Yayasan Hasanah and Yayasan Mahkota
“In today’s volatile and complex world, effective crisis leadership is more crucial than ever. Prof Sattar’s book provides practical tools and insights for leaders to navigate disruptions with resilience and foresight. At QBE Singapore, we recognize that the ability to adapt, communicate effectively, and make agile decisions is key to thriving amid uncertainty. The C.R.I.S.I.S. Leadership Model and frameworks like these equip leaders to not only manage crises but to emerge stronger and more strategically focused. This book is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to lead through the challenges of a rapidly changing landscape.”
Ronak Shah
CEO, QBE Insurance (Singapore)
“Prof Sattar Bawany’s book “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader is a readable and comprehensive guide that can benefit both senior management as well as aspiring business leaders. In my career, I’ve noticed that we usually plan for success but rarely for crises. However, recent experience has shown us that “black swan” events are now becoming more frequent, so this book is a timely reminder that good leadership should encompass planning for uncertainty.”
Richard Eu
Group Chairman, Eu Yan Sang International Ltd (EYSI)
“Prof Sattar Bawany’s latest book “The Making of a CRISIS Leader” provides a comprehensive guide to the board and management in navigating through turbulent and challenging times.”
Datuk Syed Mohamed Ibrahim
President & CEO, Johor Corporation, Malaysia and Director, Sultan Ibrahim Foundation
“Having spent about 40 years as CEO and Managing Director of multinational companies and senior leadership in Singapore’s public sector, I have experienced numerous unprecedented crises including the SARS and COVID that disrupted the world. Disruption is about finding innovative ways to stay relevant. I have learned that you cannot plan for it – but you need to learn to manage it when it comes. Prof Sattar’s C.R.I.S.I.S. Leadership Model offers a practical crisis response framework that prepares a leader to build crisis resiliency in an organization. The book is a must-read for all business leaders in today’s VUCAD-driven business environment.”
Ted Tan
Chairman, CSE Global Ltd and Former Deputy Chief Executive, Enterprise Singapore
“While day-to-day management is the responsibility of the executive team, the board must provide support while also critically evaluating management’s actions to ensure they are effective and aligned with stakeholder interests.
“The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” is a best practice resource for directors to make tough decisions management that are critical during crises. It also provides guidance to the board in executing its role as a stabilizing force, providing strategic oversight, holding management accountable, ensuring transparency, and protecting the organization’s value and reputation. A must-read for 21st century board directors.”
Rajeev Peshawaria
CEO, Stewardship Asia Center, Singapore, and President, Leadership Energy Consulting, Seattle, WA, USA. Author of the Wall Street Journal and Amazon bestseller Open Source Leadership (McGraw Hill), Too Many Bosses, Too Few Leaders (Simon & Schuster)
“In a crisis, communication in an organization isn’t just a tool. It’s the main factor that builds trust, fosters clarity, and inspires action. Leadership in a crisis is about speaking with transparency, listening with empathy, and guiding with clarity. The strongest leaders guide their teams through crises not with perfect answers but with authentic communication. Authentic communication is not about being perfect but it’s about being real.
Prof. Sattar Bawany’s latest book, “The Making of a “C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader”, is an essential read for leaders navigating corporate crises—those unexpected events that threaten an organization’s reputation, financial stability, or operational continuity. This insightful book sheds light on the critical role of boards in every aspect of crisis management, particularly in ensuring that management decisions align with the long-term success and sustainability of the organization. A must-read for leaders and board members seeking to elevate their crisis management strategies.”
Dato’ Hj Che Abdullah Bin Mat Nawi, JP
Former Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry, Malaysia; former Kelantan State Councillor and CEO, UMK Holdings Sdn. Bhd.
“The Results-Based Leadership (RBL) Framework as expounded in “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” is a powerful model that can guide boards in managing crises effectively by focusing on outcomes, aligning actions, and ensuring accountability. This approach prioritizes strategic impact over-reactive responses, making it an essential tool for navigating organizational crises. The book provides board best practice approaches and guidelines for articulating a clear vision of success for the crisis response including setting a goal to maintain stakeholder trust, minimize operational disruptions, or safeguard the organization’s reputation. By utilizing the RBL Framework, boards can move beyond reactive firefighting to a structured, outcome-focused approach that aligns immediate actions with long-term organizational resilience and success. A must-read for all CEOs and Board members”
Dato’ Azmi Mohd Ali
Executive Chairman and Senior Partner, Azmi & Associates and Lifetime Fellow, Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia (ICDM)
“The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader delivers powerful insights and proven frameworks to empower today leaders who facing constant stream of unprecedented crises, uncertainty, and disruptive technological shifts with strategic agility, resilience, and confidence. It’s a guide for leaders not just to adapt, but to lead their organizations forward with unshakable purpose and values.”
Wianto Chen
President Director, MSIG Life Indonesia
“In an era marked by unprecedented global challenges—from geopolitical tensions to climate crises, to the rapid disruption caused by technological innovation—leadership has never been more crucial. This book offers a timely and comprehensive guide for leaders at all levels, providing actionable insights and proven strategies to navigate through chaos and uncertainty. Prof Sattar Bawany’s C.R.I.S.I.S. Leadership Model is particularly valuable, offering a structured approach to developing the critical skills and mindset necessary for managing crises effectively. By blending real-world case studies with forward-thinking frameworks, this book empowers leaders not only to survive in turbulent times but to lead with resilience, agility, and purpose. A must-read for anyone looking to turn crises into opportunities for organizational growth and long-term success.”
Suhaimi Salleh
President & Group CEO, SSA Group
“It is not just a VUCA world, but a VUCAD world, one that is not only volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous, but also disruptive. Organizations will need to prepare for the disruptive challenges that will come their way, and Leadership is key.
The C.R.I.S.I.S. leadership model provides a useful frame for leaders, especially in leading an organization during times of crisis. Prof Sattar Bawany also provides useful guides for both the Board and Management, to take the necessary steps to hone its skills, so that they are able to protect the organisation when a crisis occurs.”
Sim Gim Guan
Executive Director, Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF)
“In the crowded field of books about leadership, Prof Sattar Bawany’s book “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S Leader” truly stands out. It situates the challenge of leadership in our era squarely in the context of ongoing crises and disruption, where non-linear change suddenly manifests itself. Prof Bawany lays out the disciplines needed when executing leadership tasks in such an environment. For example, a crisis impacts team dynamics and calls for a changed leadership style toward great decision-making decentralization. To my mind, the key discipline he describes is to see crises as an opportunity for organizational transformation and the acquisition of competitive advantages, rather than retreating into survival mode and seeing the crisis merely as a storm to be weathered.
Through concrete case examples, Prof Bawany outlines how leaders in crisis conditions need to dive deep within their organizations and within themselves to turn crisis into opportunity. Through his explanation of the C.R.I.S.I.S. model of leadership, he also touches on various best practices, such as the need for transparent and empathetic communications in a crisis – something the Soviets and the Japanese military during the Second World War spectacularly failed to do, with predictable results. Prof Bawany eloquently makes the case for why, in our era, organizations should not be built for stability but built for change, with argues for prioritizing the attributes of agility and, above all, resilience.”
Leon Perera
Chairman of the Board, Yamada Consulting and Spire; Board Director, Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics and Former Member of Parliament in Singapore
“It feels undoubtedly true that leaders of today will need to deal with greater complexity which will come at speed and unpredictability. Climate change alone will require leaders of government, business, and civil society to have remarkable leadership capacities to navigate this future world. This is just one, or many significant phenomena, we are now facing. Prof Sattar’s new book, ‘The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader’, presents thought-provoking and immediately useful tools and notions to equip every leader to be a take on these challenges and become a stronger force for good. These tools include how to prepare for a crisis, how to coach leaders to be ready for this new world, and how boards should provide oversight of their organizations in this new context.”
Simon (Mac) McKenzie
CEO, the Bridge Institute
“In ‘The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader’, Professor Sattar Bawany offers an insightful and comprehensive guide for leaders navigating the complex, volatile, and interconnected landscape of today’s global crises. Drawing on a wide range of real-world examples, from geopolitical conflicts to corporate disasters, this book highlights the urgent need for effective crisis management strategies in an era marked by uncertainty and disruption. Professor Bawany not only examines past crises but also equips leaders with the tools and frameworks necessary to lead organizations through future challenges. His innovative “C.R.I.S.I.S.” Leadership Model offers a practical approach to developing the critical skills and competencies needed to thrive under pressure. A must-read for anyone in a leadership position, this book is a vital resource for learning how to transform moments of crisis into opportunities for growth, resilience, and long-term sustainability. Whether you’re leading a corporation, a community, or a country, Professor Bawany’s expertise will inspire you to lead with clarity and confidence in the face of adversity.”
Prof Dr Vinitha Guptan
Vice-Chancellor, Saito University College
“Having been in multiple global roles around the world, I have had my share of dealing with crises affecting thousands of employees and external stakeholders and fully relate to Prof Bawany’s book and its great insights on dealing with crises beyond a leader’s control. His real-life examples and conceptual models will help leaders at all levels to demonstrate individual and organizational resilience to reshape the outcomes of the future.
The need to envision a purpose-driven future to reinvent the organization, is fully aligned to what we do for employees and leaders on personal Purpose, Energy and Values, for them to remain relevant. Highly recommend this timely book, as the world goes through one crisis after another and needs leaders with the ability, capacity and resilience to deal with it.”
Varun Bhatia
CEO eVolv and Ex CHRO of Levi Strauss, AirAsia and Global HR leader at Gillette, P&G and Kraft Foods
“The latest Professor Sattar Bawany’s book will guide the organization to adopt proactive strategies to tackle future crises, leveraging leadership skills and frameworks to navigate an increasingly disruptive world. Effective leadership is crucial for resolving crises, with the book aiming to teach leaders at all levels the C.R.I.S.I.S. Leadership Model.
This book is a must-read for all leaders to guide them in navigating the uncertainties of the business world. It offers a comprehensive toolkit for crisis management, empowering leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively steer their organizations through turbulent times. By adopting the strategies outlined in this book, leaders can enhance their decision-making capabilities, foster resilience, and ensure long-term sustainability amidst an ever-changing landscape.”
Amran Zakaria
Head, Group Human Capital Division, Johor Plantations Group Berhad.
“As an educator, I can wholeheartedly testify that teachers are constantly operating on the principles of C.R.I.S.I.S. outlined in this book. Imagine managing a classroom of 30 students—it’s crisis management daily. Throughout history, good teachers have naturally employed many of the powerful principles advocated here, such as communication (where active listening is essential for successful teaching and learning), risk management (anticipating challenges with students or the classroom environment), influence (motivating and guiding students toward learning), strategizing (planning lessons and handling unexpected situations), inspiring (keeping students engaged and motivated), and sustaining (ensuring a productive learning environment amidst disruptions). I resonate with these principles not only in the classroom but also in the broader context of corporate leadership. Whether in education or business, transformational leadership requires the same skills and competencies highlighted in this highly relevant and practical book.”
Ky. Col. Prof. Dr. Edward Roy Krishnan
Founder & Director General, European International University (EIU-Paris)
“Professor Satar Bawany’s The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S Leader is more than a manual for navigating tough times—it’s a roadmap for transforming challenges into leadership opportunities. In an era where change is swift, and crises feel almost constant, this book dives deeply into the qualities leaders need to rise above adversity, steering their teams and organizations toward sustainable success. Prof Bawany’s unique C.R.I.S.I.S framework resonates with authenticity and practicality, blending his extensive experience with actionable insights. For leaders new to their roles, this book provides foundational skills to navigate high-pressure situations with clarity and purpose. For seasoned leaders, it offers a fresh perspective, sharpening their ability to adapt, respond, and lead with resilience. Each page reflects Professor Bawany’s unwavering commitment to empowering leaders, making this not just a guide but an invaluable resource for anyone who dares to lead during turbulent times.
Having spent years in leadership myself, I’ve learned that true resilience is not about weathering one storm but knowing how to rise, adapt, and inspire through every wave. Professor Bawany’s book encapsulates this ethos perfectly. I wholeheartedly endorse The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S Leader as a must-read for today’s and tomorrow’s leaders.”
Datuk Jake Abdullah
Consultant Media Prima Audio, CEO Malaysian Dynamic Media
“The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” is an essential playbook for navigating through uncertainty and disruption. Prof Sattar Bawany distils the essence of crisis leadership, offering a structured C.R.I.S.I.S. model that leaders can apply to respond effectively when the stakes are high. His insights go beyond mere crisis management—they empower leaders to turn challenges into opportunities for resilience and growth.
The book’s approach to communication, resilience, and strategic intelligence equips leaders with the mental and emotional tools necessary for navigating complex environments. It also underscores the importance of preparation, including proactive crisis planning and coaching at the board level, to ensure that when disruption strikes, leaders are ready to respond with clarity and confidence. This book is not just for executives; it’s a comprehensive guide for anyone seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities in today’s unpredictable world. It provides actionable frameworks and real-world examples, helping leaders stay adaptable and prepared to transform a crisis into a catalyst for positive change. Prof Bawany’s work is essential reading for anyone committed to leading effectively through turbulent times.”
Terry O’Connor OBE
Managing Director, Trim Consultancy and former CEO, PT Matahari Department Store Tbk, Indonesia and former Managing Director & CEO, Courts Asia
“Boards should routinely assess organizational resilience and identify potential vulnerabilities. This involves scenario planning, stress testing, and simulations to pre-emptively understand the impact of various crises (e.g., financial, operational, reputational). “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” provides best practices and research-based leadership tools and frameworks that guide boards in managing crises by equipping board members with structured approaches and principles for rapid, yet prudent, decision-making. Below is a framework that addresses key components for effective board leadership in crises.
The book offers a comprehensive guide for boards to navigate crises with foresight, agility, and accountability, ensuring they protect organizational integrity while being responsive to stakeholders. I would highly recommend it to all Board members from various industries globally.”
Tan Sri Dato’ Azman Shah Haron
Chairman and CEO, Holiday Villa Hotels and Resorts Limited, former President of the Malaysia Employers Federation (MEF) and former President of the International Organization of Employers (IOE)
“Prof Sattar Bawany’s latest book “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” provides the board of directors with best practice approaches and guidance on how they could play a pivotal role in managing organizational crises, as they are responsible for overseeing the company’s long-term stability and safeguarding stakeholders’ interests. When a crisis emerges—be it financial, reputational, operational, or strategic—the board’s actions are instrumental in navigating the organization through turbulent times. The board is responsible for ensuring that the organization has a crisis management plan and is prepared to handle emergencies. The book guides the board during times of crisis on how they could navigate the organization’s strategic direction and approves major decisions that affect the company’s long-term viability. A must-read for members of boards for all types of organizations.”
Edy Tuhirman
Founder, Kaya Investing Platform and former President Director & CEO of Generali Indonesia
“Definitely ”The Making of a CR.I.S.I.S. Leader” is a book not to be missed. Prof. Sattar Bawany expertly distills the many messages and learnings from headwinds faced by leaders in recent years, captured in this book. And in a world that is transitioning, you will want to read this book and continue to go back to it as you take on the more to come.”
Datuk (Dr) Nora Manaf
Group Chief Human Capital Officer, Maybank and Board Member, Etiqa General Insurance Berhad, MBB Labs (Bangalore) India
“In a world marked by continuous disruption and unforeseen challenges, Prof Sattar Bawany’s “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” emerges as a vital resource for today’s leaders. This book encapsulates the essence of adaptive and resilient leadership, equipping readers with the insights and tools to manage crises with foresight and confidence. Prof Bawany’s unique C.R.I.S.I.S. Leadership Model is a comprehensive guide that goes beyond mere survival, emphasizing transformation and strategic agility.
Drawing from real-world examples and practical wisdom, this work offers an indispensable roadmap for executives and managers striving to lead in volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous environments. Prof Bawany’s approach is both enlightening and empowering, making this book a must-read for anyone committed to navigating the complexities of modern leadership.”
Adj. Prof Farid Basir
Group Chief People Officer, MBSB and Adjunct Professor, UNITAR International University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
“Sattar Bawany’s ‘The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader’ presents a compelling and practical approach to crisis management with the “C.R.I.S.I.S.” model, a framework deeply rooted in research and designed for modern-day leadership. Each component— Communication, Resilience, Intelligence, Shifting the Mental Model, Inspiring, and Setting the Recovery Path—is a meticulously crafted tool, empowering leaders to steer their teams with empathy, resilience, and foresight. Bawany’s insights on maintaining transparency, fostering trust, and implementing data-driven decision-making during disruptions make this book an invaluable resource for leaders who aspire to not only manage crises but inspire and transform their organizations through them.”
Dr Timothy Low
Former CEO of Gleneagles Hospital and former CEO and Board Director of Farrer Park Hospital.
“In ‘The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader,’ Prof Sattar Bawany offers an insightful and indispensable guide for leaders navigating the turbulent waters of today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous, and disruptive global environment. This book is a masterclass in crisis leadership that fuses theoretical insights with actionable strategies and real-world case studies. Aspiring and seasoned leaders alike will find Prof Bawany’s 5-step crisis management planning and strategy an invaluable resource to steer their organizations through crises and emerge stronger. His focus on transparent communication, stakeholder engagement, strategic agility and a culture of continuous learning is both timely and timeless.
I thank Prof Bawany for sharing his wisdom and thoughts on becoming a more effective, agile and resilient leader.”
Dr. Kelvin Koh W B
Medical Director, Jurong Community Hospital and Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore
“Disruption is all around us, more so today than ever before. And given the trajectory that the world is taking over the coming decades, this area of disruption is going to be even more emphatic than ever. The impact of this on the vision of the Board, on the strategies of the CEO and the Management Team, as well as the way in which work is being done to achieve those strategic goals now has led to the rises of a very different leader, a C.R.I.S.I.S Leader. In this book by Prof Sattar he goes on to explore what it takes to be an effective leader in disruptive times, but he also goes on to provide a variety of pragmatic frameworks that can be practically applied overcome the challenges many leaders face today. Prof Sattar’s Paragon7 Cognitive Readiness Competencies Framework as well as Results Based Leadership Framework are 2 such tools that can be applied with relative ease by the leaders of organisations.
As a Board Member myself, the questions raised by Prof Sattar certainly resonates with me and I believe they should take front and centre stage at all yearly board evaluation exercises. A definite must-have on the reading list of board members and senior management team members as well as those aspiring to reach the upper echelons of management as part of their career development.”
Taranjeet Singh
CEO, Quantum Steppe Advisory and Advisory Panel Member for Universiti Teknologi Petronas, Malaysia and Trustee Board Member, Esil University, Astana, Kazakhstan.
“The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” by Professor Sattar Bawany offers a timely and indispensable roadmap for leaders navigating an era of extraordinary disruption and uncertainty. In this powerful work, Professor Bawany synthesizes insights from interviews with C-suite leaders worldwide, unveiling the essential practices that help leaders not only survive but thrive in crises. His “C.R.I.S.I.S.” model breaks down critical dimensions of leadership during crisis events: Communicating effectively and empathetically, building Resilience to manage stress, ensuring Intelligence with data-driven insights, fostering Strategic agility, and inspiring Support among teams. With compelling case studies – including the global responses to the COVID-19 pandemic – Professor Bawany showcases real-world applications of his framework, highlighting how leaders can develop adaptability, communicate transparently, and transform crises into opportunities for growth. This book is a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of crisis leadership and an essential resource for any leader committed to resilience, agility, and the sustained success of their organization in uncertain times.”
Dr Tan Joo Seng
Associate Professor, Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University Singapore
“The book provides practical and useful tools and approaches to help leaders hone the right competencies and adopt balanced perspectives on crisis management. In the world of VUCA where transformative leadership needs to occur, the C.R.I.S.I.S. Leadership Model provides a systematic overarching approach to navigating the myriad of challenges that many leaders face. I am confident the reader will find this book extremely useful and enlightening. I recommend this book to all organizational leaders, new or experienced.”
Dr. Tham Tat Yean
Chief Executive Officer, Frontier Healthcare Group and Ag Country Head, Qualitas Health Singapore
“In the last 100 years the world faced a series of crises – starting with the great depression of 1929, the wars, the oil crisis, the financial crises of Asia and the world and then the COVID-19 pandemic. Many lessons have been learned from these. How do we deal with future crises, which the world will no doubt face? With useful case studies, Sattar gives an insight into how leaders can prepare for the next crisis and beyond.”
Prof Inderjit Singh Dhaliwal
President of the Global Startup Committee, World Business Angles Investment Forum (WBAF), Adjunct Professor, Nanyang Technological University
“Crisis management and leadership are two important and often time intertwining skillsets, that are often learned through experience with trials, tribulations, and perhaps errors in one’s career & life. Professor Bawany’s insights on crisis leadership are exemplary offering a practical guide with pearls of wisdom in helping anyone to navigate through these uncharted territories. Kudos to Prof Bawany for excellent work!”
Joe Tai
Regional Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director, APAC, TP Aerospace
“Professor Bawany’s latest work is relevant to senior leaders and their management teams, as they navigate through very unsettling times. In recent times, the pace of technological change has accelerated with the advent of AI, geopolitical tension has increased in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and several key developed economies have seen significant changes in leadership and international policy. The landscape for large multinational companies has never been so complex and unpredictable. Professor Bawany can link real-world events to the behaviors of leaders and the decisions they take in response to the risks and opportunities they face each day. This book is a valuable resource for senior leaders who are seeking an edge in understanding what drives high-performing individuals and teams, and how they can be better leaders in times of crisis.”
Simon Sinclair
COO, Markets Trading, Standard Chartered Bank
“In the dynamic and often tumultuous realm of business, few books carve out a distinct and indispensable niche as seamlessly as Prof Sattar Bawany’s new book, “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader.” “It’s a rigorous exploration and insightful examination of the qualities that define and distinguish truly transformative leaders in times of crisis. Through compelling case studies and robust research, Bawany offers a lucid framework for understanding the complexities of leadership when the stakes are highest. His “C.R.I.S.I.S.” model of leadership—Communicate, Resilience, Intelligence, Shifting the Mental Model—does more than iterate; it inspires.”
Robin Speculand
Author of Implement and World’s Best Bank
“As a CEO who has faced numerous crises, it’s become evident that crises are happening more frequently and with greater intensity. In these moments, stakeholders—employees, clients, and partners—look to their leaders for stability and direction more than ever before. Sattar Bawany’s The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader arrives at a critical time, offering leaders a clear and practical framework for navigating these unpredictable challenges. The C.R.I.S.I.S. model emphasizes the importance of communication, resilience, and strategic agility, all of which are indispensable for today’s leaders.”
Brian O. Underhill, Ph.D., PCC
Founder & CEO, CoachSource, LLC
“Professor Sattar’s take on the role of the Board when handling a crisis is both comprehensive and practical. He offers many considerations and useful tips on what Boards need to do, before, during, and after a crisis. In the current business climate where multiple complexities exist on many fronts, it makes great sense for Boards and Leadership to work closely hand in hand to anticipate and proactively respond to crises and emerge stronger to benefit the organizations.”
Carmen Wee, MA, IHRP-MP, SID SRAD
Board Member, HTX & Workforce Singapore
“Disruption seems to be the new normal as the modern world oscillates between the opportunities afforded by radical technologies and the macro-risks of economic uncertainties or geopolitical conflict. Hence it is not unknown to see leaders today waking up to a new crisis with the same regularity as the morning alarm. This makes Prof Bawany’s manifesto on Crisis Leadership a pertinent and well-timed reminder of the first principles which result in true leadership during turbulent times.”
Gyan Nagpal
Director of Human Resources – AIA Group/Dean of AIA Leadership Centre and author of the award-winning bestsellers The Future Ready Organisation (2020) and Talent Economics (2013)
“Congrats to Prof Sattar for embarking on this endeavor to refresh and share ideas and best practices to lead in a disruptive, digitalized, and divisive global world order. This is useful reading to further guide and steer our future-ready leadership and thinking particularly in the globe impacted by the Generative Artificial Intelligence and Sustainability agenda.”
Patrick Tay Teck Guan, BBM
Assistant Secretary-General, National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and Member of Parliament of Singapore, Pioneer Constituency
“This book is a very timely addition to the existing scholarly and professional literature on managerial approaches to a crisis at both societal and organizational levels. Given the plethora of short-term and longer-term crises occurring across the world, whether man-made, environmental, or some combination of these, this book provides an extremely timely and reassuring guide for managers and leaders on how to effectively and strategically respond when their interests or desired outcomes are threatened. It combines a summary and critique of contemporary crisis management theory and practice with an innovative “C.R.I.S.I.S.” (communication-resilience-intelligence-shifting mental model-inspiring-structuring the recovery plan) framework which will undoubtedly be welcomed by those charged with the management of diverse crises.”
Professor Alan Nankervis
Professor of Human Resource Management, Curtin University.
“The importance of Leadership in a crisis cannot be over-emphasized. You have beautifully captured the essence of leadership in such crises and provided an extremely useful “C.R.I.S.I.S.” leadership framework & various case studies for Leaders to successfully manage disruptions in a crisis. Your emphasis on preparing for crisis and creating crisis management plans will create the foundations for companies to deal with disruptions effectively and hopefully, prevent them from developing into crises. Your point on the Board taking the lead in setting the tone and pace of crisis preparedness in a company is timely. In today’s VUCAD environment, Boards need to take a proactive stance and where necessary, “coach” and guide management accordingly. Your chapter on “Coaching for C.R.I.S.I.S. Leaders” resonates with me as I have personally benefited from executive coaching, and I strongly recommend it for every Leader.
This book is a must-read for all Leaders preparing for the next crisis!”
BG (Retd) Chua Chwee Koh
Former Chief Operating Officer, Certis CISCO Pte Ltd and Board Director of Nasdaq-listed Trident Digital Tech Holdings Ltd and SGX-listed companies, Addvalue Technologies Ltd and Raffles Education Ltd.
“It is critical in today’s world to be able to competently lead through a crisis and come out stronger. This book teaches you how to precisely do that. It is an excellent read!”
Professor Jochen Wirtz
Vice Dean, MBA Programmes and Professor of Marketing, National University of Singapore
“Prof Sattar Bawany’s book “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” beautifully captures the essence of the theme of Crisis Leadership. It indeed positions itself as a valuable guide for anyone looking to enhance their leadership capabilities in an increasingly unpredictable world. Prof Bawany’s holistic approach, addressing crises at personal, familial, institutional, corporate, and political levels, makes the book a versatile resource for individuals across various spheres.
By acknowledging that every crisis carries growth potential, Prof Bawany empowers leaders and individuals to not just manage crises but to emerge stronger from them. His analysis of the complex dynamics of leadership during times of uncertainty provides readers with the tools needed to adapt, innovate, and thrive in the face of adversity as well as serves as a roadmap for navigating both professional and personal challenges during crises is spot on. Whether you’re leading a company, or government institution, or dealing with societal or political disruptions, the lessons in “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” will equip you with strategies that foster resilience, agility, and long-term success.”
Datuk Seri Mohamed Iqbal Rawther
Group Deputy Chairman of Farlim Group (Malaysia) Berhad; Pro-Chancellor, Binary University Malaysia and former Chairman of the Business Advisory Council, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific
“Prof Sattar elegantly summarises the key principle underpinning the “C.R.I.S.I.S.” leadership model, including the management plan and strategy and the underlying reasons. He communicates the lessons and learnings in a simple, practical, easily internalized and applicable manner through well-summarised text and comprehensive summary diagrams. An excellent reflective read for all categories of leaders up to the C suite level.”
Adjunct Associate Professor Bernard Thong
Chairman Medical Board, Tan Tock Seng Hospital and National Healthcare Group
“The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” by Sattar Bawany is a compelling guide to navigating the complexities of leadership in turbulent times. Bawany outlines in well-researched detail how leaders can thrive by embracing uncertainty and fostering resilience. The book’s C.R.I.S.I.S. leadership framework provides a clear, actionable roadmap for decision-making and emotional intelligence under pressure. This book urges readers to see crises as opportunities for growth and transformation. Packed with real-world insights and case studies, it is a timely and valuable resource. A must-read for leaders aiming to ensure their organizations will excel in the current challenging business and social environment.”
Ken Pasternak
Author, Speaker, Educator, Member of Marshall Goldsmith’s 100 Coaches Community
“Your perspective is insightful—crisis and opportunity often coexist, and the pace at which technology, particularly internet communication, has accelerated change is unprecedented. The digital revolution is reshaping sectors like politics, economics, society, and technology, making the world more interconnected and, as you mentioned, commoditized.
Leaders today face a complex landscape where the challenges and opportunities shift quickly, and this is where management models become critical. The book “The Making of a CR.I.S.I.S. Leader” offers these models which are invaluable, as it could provide leaders with the tools to navigate these rapid changes and adapt to new norms, ensuring they can thrive in this era of transformation. Your framing captures the urgency and relevance of such guidance in a world where constant adaptation is necessary for success.”
YM Tengku Tan Sri (Dr) Mahaleel Tengku Arif
Former Group Chief Executive Officer of Proton Holdings Berhad, Former Director, Nestle Malaysia and Shell Malaysia
“In the context of ongoing global crises, such as wars, economic instability, climate change, social unrest, and health emergencies, Professor Sattar Bawany has written a timely book which clearly articulates the attributes corporate leaders must develop such as resilience, disruptive digital mindset and cognitive readiness to mention a few, to guide their organizations through crises, ensuring not only survival but also the potential for growth and positive impact in the world.”
Prof. Dr Milé Terziovski
Chair, Department of Business Technology and Entrepreneurship (BTE), Professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, President, Swinburne University Staff Club, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
“Prof. Sattar’s insightful latest book “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” is a must-read for leaders navigating the complexities of crisis management. His analysis not only highlights the critical need for unlearning outdated practices but also emphasizes the importance of relearning effective strategies to lead through turbulent times.
Prof. Sattar’s expertise and clear articulation make this review an invaluable resource for leaders at all levels seeking to enhance their crisis leadership skills. Highly recommended for anyone committed to driving positive change and resilience in their organizations.”
Anndy Lian
Intergovernmental Blockchain Expert and Best-selling Book Author
“The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader by Prof. Bawany is a timely guide for leaders navigating an increasingly complex world. His C.R.I.S.I.S. Leadership Model provides an actionable framework for building the resilience and adaptability essential to leading during crises. This is more than a theoretical concept—it’s a model grounded in the realities of modern leadership, offering practical tools that leaders can apply immediately.
The book’s focus on Crisis Management Planning is particularly valuable, with its structured five-step approach equipping leaders to prepare their organizations for the unexpected. Additionally, the insights on the board’s role in crisis navigation offer crucial guidance for governance teams, underscoring the strategic importance of leadership at every level. For leaders committed to long-term organizational resilience, this book is an invaluable resource.”
Ryan Lim, MSID
Founding Partner, QED Changemakers
“A crisis can quickly expose a leader’s hidden strengths and weaknesses. Many books are written about crisis management, but few focus on crisis leadership. Managing and providing leadership in a crisis is not the same, although each addresses different aspects of a difficult situation. Don’t wait until a crisis strikes to find out your leadership skills are wanting in these areas. The book “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” provides the best practice resource guide on the skills, competencies, traits, and perspectives a leader needs to demonstrate effectively in a crisis.”
Bill Lang
Executive Director, Small Business Australia, Chairman, Bill Lang International, Executive Chairman, Human Performance Company
“Prof Sattar has filled a gap in the market with ‘The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader’ putting crisis management at the senior most leadership levels front and center. This is essential reading for all leaders, entrepreneurs, start-ups and scale-ups, as they continue to navigate increasingly unpredictable social, economic, and geo-political times, with ongoing business transformation continuing at a pace. A great read with practical frameworks and models for leaders to apply directly to their business, now.”
Jeremy Blain
CEO Performance Works International. #1 international best-selling author of ‘Unleash The Inner CEO – Make distributed leadership a reality’ – The ‘Leadership Book of the Year’ winner at the Global Book Awards, 2024.
“Good leadership is crucial in a crisis, providing the clarity, direction and decisiveness needed to navigate uncertainty. A strong leader keeps the team focused, boosts morale and makes tough decisions that mitigate risks and drive recovery. Effective crisis leadership also requires clear communication, empathy and adaptability to manage both immediate challenges and long-term impacts. The publication, The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader, by Professor Sattar Bawany offers valuable lessons on crisis management, the skills leaders need to handle future disruptions and how they can transform organizations. It draws from the experiences of leaders, offering insights into decision-making, innovation and building confidence in turbulent times.”
Hernaikh Singh
Deputy Director, Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS), National University of Singapore (NUS)
“Business environment has become more hostile and unpredictable. Professor Bawany’s 5-step crisis management planning and strategy provides some brilliant insights into managing crises and prepares leaders to navigate uncertain futures. A timely and well-written book“
Kenny Yap
Executive Chairman, Qian Hu Corporation Limited
“I think the book “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” is an exceptional work that provides leaders with the tools and wisdom needed to steer the organizations through turbulent times. I especially like the best practice tool on the Paragon7 cognitive readiness framework. Wish you all the best with your latest book!”
Shamsol Anuar Ibrahim
Head Group Human Capital, DRB-HICOM Berhad
“I am amazed at the author’s thoughts to emphasize new dimensions of leadership. The C.R.I.S.I.S Leadership model is very relevant and timely for the current and robust environment where organizations require resilient and agile leaders who believe in sustainability. The R.B.L. Framework and A.D.A.M. Coaching Model provide a great direction. Well done!”
Dr. Roselina A. Saufi
Professor in Business and Management, Malaysian Graduate School of Entrepreneurship and Business, University Malaysia Kelantan
“As the saying goes “The taste of the pudding is in the eating”. This book offers a timely, insightful, and practical guide for leaders navigating an increasingly VUCAD World. Professor Bawany’s expertise shines through in his analysis of leadership during crises, providing not only theoretical frameworks but also real-world examples of leadership in action. The C.R.I.S.I.S. model he introduces is a comprehensive blueprint for leaders who seek to excel in moments of extreme uncertainty and challenge. This book is an essential read for any leader who aspires to lead in addressing the growing complexity of global crises, which are reshaping the business landscape and necessitating robust crisis management skills.”
Mohar Ibrahim
Founder MMI Associates and Former Senior Advisor, Group Human Resources, Sapura Energy Berhad
“The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader” is a must-read for leaders at all levels navigating today’s unpredictable world. Professor Bawany’s actionable framework equips readers with the skills to turn crises into opportunities for growth and transformation. This book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to lead effectively in times of disruption.”
Virendra Shelar
Executive Officer & President, Omron Management Center Asia Pacific and General Manager, Global Human Resource Strategy Department
“In crises, harnessing the strengths of a diverse team can lead to innovative solutions. A crisis leader should promote collaboration, encouraging insights from varied perspectives to navigate challenges more effectively. While crises often arise unexpectedly, a strong leader prepares for potential issues through scenario planning and risk assessment. Afterward, reflecting on what worked and what didn’t cultivate a learning mindset, refining strategies and enhancing future responses, which fosters a culture of continuous improvement. Prof. Sattar emphasizes that by showing empathy, actively listening, and supporting their team, leaders can sustain morale and trust during tough times. Resilience and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth are crucial.
I commend Prof Sattar for dedicating considerable time to this field of study, drawing on his management experience and interactions with CEOs and entrepreneurs, enabling him to grasp the nuances of the current business landscape.”
Dr. T. Chandroo
Chairman and CEO, MMI Group
“Executive coaching for emerging leaders during a crisis requires unique strategies to foster resilience, adaptability, and strategic thinking. The A.D.A.M. Coaching Framework, as detailed in “The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader,” offers a structured model for executive coaches, providing a clear pathway toward goal achievement. This framework also includes an action phrase that empowers clients to embrace self-discovery and develop an action plan that instils accountability.
This book is particularly timely, offering crucial guidance to executive coaches in times of crisis.”
Dr. Michael Heah, MCC
Chairman, Malaysian Association of Certified Coaches and CEO & Founder, Corporate Coach Academy Sdn Bhd
“We are living in an era where both the scale and impact of disruption has never been greater. Prof Sattar’s latest book on leading during such challenging times provides a timely response in the form of a robust conceptual framework, that are equally applicable for both individuals practicing self-mastery and for leaders of teams and organizations who are enabling their organization in navigating through such unchartered territories. Just like a sextant in the hands of a capable navigator, the C.R.I.S.I.S. framework facilitates the mapping of strategy to mitigate against potential threats during such turbulent and chaotic times.”
John Augustine Ong
Learning & Development, Qatar Investment Authority
“’The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader’ by Professor Sattar Bawany offers profound insights and essential practical tools for leaders navigating today’s turbulent business environment. The integrated ‘C.R.I.S.I.S.’ approach redefines how organizations respond effectively to threats that could jeopardize their survival, making this work a critical guide for crisis leadership.”
Dr. Amer Ali Al-Atwi
Professor of Organizational Behavior, University of Al-Qadisiyah , Iraq
“In ‘The Making of a C.R.I.S.I.S. Leader,’ readers will discover a comprehensive and timely guide for navigating the complexities of modern leadership. This book offers a valuable roadmap for leaders at all levels, providing practical strategies and tools to address the challenges of today’s fast-paced and unpredictable world. The A.D.A.M. coaching methodology is a game-changer for developing leaders who can effectively manage crisis and uncertainty. The C.R.I.S.I.S. leadership model and crisis management strategies presented in this book are impactful, offering a clear and actionable framework for leaders to follow.
This book is a must-read for anyone looking to develop their leadership skills and stay ahead of the curve in today’s disruptive global environment. The insights and expertise shared within these pages will empower leaders to navigate even the most turbulent of times confidently.”
Jesline Su (MHRM)
Director, Human Resources & Corporate Services and Board Member, Lighthouse Evangelism