What Businesses Can Learn from Gareth Southgate's Leadership

England fell agonisingly short at the final hurdle once again, reminiscent of their Euro 2020 heartbreak. This time, it was coupled with Gareth Southgate's decision to step down from his role as manager. Despite the shortcomings, it is vital to celebrate the remarkable achievements and progress made under Gareth Southgate's leadership. "Since the 1966 World Cup, England only won seven knockout matches in 25 tournaments; under Southgate, they won nine. Before Southgate, England's longest stint in the world’s top five was seven months; he maintained it for six years. Statistically, he is the greatest England manager of the last 50 years." His tenure saw a revitalised team spirit, significant tournament success, and a restored national pride in English football. Southgate's decision to step down as manager should not overshadow the lasting positive impact he has had. His approach to team management and leadership offers valuable lessons for businesses, demonstrating the power of resilience, unity, and strategic vision.

Recreating the Culture

One of Southgate's most notable achievements was instilling a new culture within the England setup. Previous generations of England players found it difficult to put their club rivalries aside, with former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard saying: “There’s hatred there. That’s exactly how it was.”  Alongside Dan Ashworth, he played a crucial role in redesigning the team's ethos even before taking on the coaching mantle, with the “England DNA” programme. During his tenure, Southgate worked to break down long standing club rivalries amongst the players, leading to a more cohesive squad. He also recognised the pressures of international football, Southgate also prioritised mental well-being in his approach. He provided psychological support and promoted open discussions about mental health, which helped players manage stress and perform better both on and off the pitch​

Strong Leadership

Southgate consistently demonstrated strong leadership qualities. Southgate’s ability to understand and connect with his players on a personal level has been a cornerstone of his leadership. He prioritised players' well-being and created an environment of trust and mutual respect. This approach helped build a strong team spirit and ensured that players felt valued and supported.  Southgate’s inclusive approach ensured that every player felt an integral part of the team. By valuing diversity and fostering an inclusive environment, he built a united and motivated squad. During a match against Bulgaria in Sofia, Gareth Southgate's team became the first international team to halt play due to racist abuse against Bulgaria in 2019. Southgate later reflected, "I felt we sent a strong message and we sent a positive message. We care for each other. We are united."

Empowering Individuals

Another key aspect of Southgate's leadership was his commitment to empowering individuals. He allowed players the freedom to experiment and gave opportunities to those from less established teams. He stated how he likes his players to have “responsibility" and to “take ownership of what’s going on.” This autonomy helped motivate players to perform at their best. This philosophy extended beyond the pitch, encouraging players to be accountable for their actions and decisions. Southgate's approach to leadership was not just about giving instructions but about empowering his players to make strategic decisions, both during matches and in their preparation. This autonomy significantly boosted their confidence and motivation, as players felt trusted and respected.

Gareth Southgate's tenure as England manager offers valuable insights for business leaders. By fostering a positive culture, demonstrating strong and accountable leadership, and empowering individuals, businesses can enhance their performance and achieve greater success. Southgate's legacy underscores the power of effective leadership and its impact on team dynamics and achievements. He has done an exceptional job, and we eagerly look forward to seeing how the team builds on the foundations that he set.