A Visionary Leader’s Role in ERP Implementations
When a business aims to embrace new initiatives or reassess its vision, seeking out a visionary leader is often the best approach.
Many organizations classify leaders into eight common styles. These are Democratic, Autocratic, Laissez-faire, Transformational, Transactional, Bureaucratic, Servant, and Adaptive Leadership (Creighton University Staff, 2024). However, there is a new kid on the block: Visionary Leadership. Visionary Leadership, as formally defined by Daniel Goleman (Goleman, 2000) and closely linked to emotional intelligence, has gained importance in transforming modern campuses—especially amid new SaaS ERP systems. Visionary leaders are future-oriented, courageous, adaptable, effective communicators, and possess high emotional intelligence (Finnis-Smart, 2025). While there are some weaknesses of visionary leaders (tunnel vision and/or neglect of current concerns or alternative ideas) (Status.net, 2019), their approach is well-suited to driving change in rapidly evolving educational technology. The following section reviews traits relevant to leading new implementations.
Visionary leaders excel at clear communication, enabling others to understand and support their goals. Their charisma encourages team alignment (Status.net, 2019). They possess high emotional intelligence, using empathy to motivate and guide teams, which fosters trust and engagement (Finnis-Smart, 2025). By recognizing and connecting with each member’s strengths and leading by example, visionary leaders inspire and influence others, building a strong sense of shared purpose.
They are also adaptable, resilient, strategic thinkers who take intelligent risks. These qualities allow them to implement transformative projects, such as new ERP systems, and embrace innovation while managing uncertainty and occasional setbacks (Status.net, 2019). Continuous learning and growth keep their vision relevant and responsive to change. Ultimately, visionary leaders drive organizational change by inspiring teams, challenging norms, and encouraging experimentation. Through clear communication and bold leadership, they lead meaningful transformation (Status.net, 2019).
Such leaders are typically brought in during pivotal moments for a company. Transformational leaders may be recruited to enhance employee motivation and develop future leaders, whereas Democratic leaders often help maintain focus and enthusiasm around the company's mission and vision while maintaining the status quo. Visionary leaders, however, specifically guide organizations toward innovation and new directions and encompass these key traits.
When a business aims to pursue new initiatives or reassess its vision, seeking a visionary leader is often the most effective approach. These leaders are especially valuable during challenging transitions, and organizations should recognize their importance when choosing someone to lead through change. In today's fast-moving, constantly changing business environment, visionary leadership is crucial for achieving sustainable growth and maintaining a competitive edge. Ultimately, it's about leading with foresight and inspiration to build a better future (Mukherjee, 2023).
References
Creighton University Staff. (2024, July 17). The 8 Most Common Leadership Styles. Www.creighton.edu. https://www.creighton.edu/blog/8-most-common-leadership-styles
Finnis-Smart, N. (2025, November 21). Visionary leadership explained: Key traits of a visionary leader. SUCCESS. https://www.success.com/visionary-leadership#
Goleman, D. (2000). Leadership that gets results. In Harvard Business Review (pp. 1–16). Harvard Business Review. https://content.leadershipacademy.nhs.uk/aspce3/files/Leadership_that_gets_results_goleman.pdf
Mukherjee, S. (2023, September 22). Visionary leadership: What is it and how is it the best? Emeritus - Online Certificate Courses | Diploma Programs. https://emeritus.org/in/learn/what-is-visionary-leadership/
Status.net. (2019, February 26). What is visionary leadership? 7 traits of a visionary leader - status guides. Status Guides. https://status.net/articles/visionary-leadership/
