The Art of Leadership: Lessons from Dr. Bimal Koirala’s Illustrious Career

Dr Bimal Koirala’s journey in academia and leadership is a testament to perseverance and dedication. From completing his Master’s degree at Tribhuvan University to studying at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions like Duke University, Harvard University and the University of Dortmund, his academic credentials are remarkable. With expertise in Economic Policy, Industrial Planning, and Leadership, Dr Koirala has built a strong foundation in governance, policy-making, and economic development. His vast knowledge and experience have positioned him as a thought leader in Nepal’s administrative and economic landscape.

As the former Chief Secretary of the Government of Nepal, Dr Koirala has played a crucial role in shaping policies that have influenced the country’s economic growth and governance. His leadership philosophy is rooted in collaboration, innovation, and ethical decision-making. He believes that true leadership goes beyond authority – it requires vision, emotional intelligence and the ability to unite people toward a common goal. His contributions have helped bridge the gap between the public and private sectors, fostering an environment where businesses and industries can thrive. Dr Koirala was also recently honoured with the ‘Lifetime Contribution Award’ by the Management Association of Nepal for his outstanding service to Nepal's management sector.

Change is never easy, especially in environments where existing systems have been in place for a long time. Leaders must first acknowledge the fears and concerns of the people resisting change. Communication is key – explaining why change is necessary and how it will benefit everyone involved.

In a conversation with Business 360, Dr Koirala shares his insights on leadership, change management and the evolving role of leaders in today’s fast-changing world. From navigating resistance to change to mentoring the next generation, he offers valuable lessons for aspiring leaders. His journey highlights that leadership is not about personal gain but about service, impact and leaving behind a lasting legacy. Excerpts:

What defines true leadership?

Leadership is about setting an example. A true leader should embody the values they expect from others. Leadership is not just about giving directions; it is about guiding and working alongside people to achieve a common goal. Leaders must have faith in their vision, be knowledgeable, and work collaboratively to find solutions.

Leadership should always be connected. A leader must stay engaged with their team and the people they are leading. Leadership plays a crucial role in administration and governance, especially when dealing with complex or seemingly impossible tasks. The ability to bring together different groups to achieve a shared goal is a mark of true leadership.

True leadership also involves emotional intelligence. A leader should be able to understand and manage their emotions while also being aware of the emotions of others. This helps in decision-making, conflict resolution and team-building. In times of crisis, a leader’s ability to stay calm and collected can make all the difference. Leadership is not about personal gains; it is about serving others and making a positive impact on society.

What is the key difference between a leader and a manager?

A manager ensures that daily operations run smoothly. They can plan and execute tasks effectively, but their focus is often short-term. A leader, on the other hand, is a visionary. They think ahead, looking at how an organisation should evolve in the future. Leaders are responsible for setting the direction and inspiring others to follow it.

While managers focus on maintaining systems and structures, leaders drive change and transformation. A good leader must be constructive in their approach, always thinking about the long-term growth and sustainability of an organisation. Additionally, leaders inspire people to go beyond their comfort zones and reach their full potential. They create an environment where innovation and creativity flourish.

Another key difference is the approach to problem-solving. Managers may rely on established processes to solve problems, while leaders encourage thinking outside the box. Leaders foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement, ensuring that the organisation remains competitive and adaptive to change.

Can you share a personal experience where leadership played a key role in overcoming a challenge?

When I was in the Ministry of Industry, our economic system was largely state-controlled, and the private sector had little room to grow. The challenge was to shift this perspective and create space for private businesses to thrive. Many were sceptical and unwilling to listen to the government.

To address this, I took a strategic approach. First, I educated myself and others on how developed countries had successfully integrated the private sector into their economies. Then, I worked to convince stakeholders that economic growth required collaboration between the government and private enterprises. By leading discussions and preparing a large group of individuals for change, we managed to shift the mindset and lay the groundwork for private-sector growth in the country.

Another challenge I faced was implementing a new policy that aimed to provide financial support to small businesses. Many believed it would not work due to bureaucratic red tape. However, through persistent efforts, open dialogues and transparent execution, we ensured that small businesses received the support they needed. The success of this initiative reinforced my belief that leadership is about taking calculated risks, making informed decisions, and working tirelessly towards a goal.

How can leaders navigate resistance to change?

Change is never easy, especially in environments where existing systems have been in place for a long time. Leaders must first acknowledge the fears and concerns of the people resisting change. Communication is key – explaining why change is necessary and how it will benefit everyone involved.

For example, as a Cabinet Secretary, I faced resistance from employees who felt their concerns were not being addressed. Instead of imposing decisions, I engaged them in dialogue. We worked together to find solutions that would benefit both employees and the organisation. This approach helped create a sense of ownership and participation, making it easier to implement change.

Leaders must also lead by example when implementing change. If people see their leaders embracing new ideas and adapting to new ways of working, they are more likely to follow. Change should be introduced in a structured way, with a clear roadmap, training and support for those who are struggling to adjust.

When should a leader step aside and pass on the baton?

Leadership succession is crucial, yet often neglected. Many leaders struggle to step aside because they fear losing influence. However, true leadership involves preparing the next generation to take over.

In democratic societies, leadership transition should be a natural process. Unfortunately, in many organisations and political parties, there is a reluctance to groom successors. This lack of preparation creates instability. Leaders must recognise when it is time to step down and allow fresh ideas and energy to take over.

With the advancement of technology and artificial intelligence, leadership must evolve. The challenges faced today are different from those of the past, and new leaders must be equipped to handle these changes effectively. A leader should not see stepping aside as a loss but rather as an opportunity to mentor and guide future leaders. The greatest leaders are those who leave behind a lasting legacy through the people they have inspired and trained.

How can a leader win the trust and support of their team?

Trust is built through knowledge, integrity and consistency. Before leading others, a leader must first understand the field they are working in. When I worked in the financial sector, I made it a point to study everything before making decisions. By being well-informed, I could engage in meaningful discussions and make confident decisions.

A leader must also be honest and transparent. People respect leaders who stand by their values and do not manipulate situations for personal gain. Lastly, a leader must be willing to learn and adapt. Leadership is not about having all the answers but about working with others to find the best solutions.

Additionally, a leader should show appreciation and acknowledge the efforts of their team. Recognising and rewarding contributions creates a motivated and engaged workforce. Listening to concerns, being empathetic and acting upon feedback are also crucial in gaining the trust and support of a team.

What qualities make a leader successful in today’s world?

Today’s leaders must be adaptable, visionary and inclusive. The world is changing rapidly, and leaders must be able to navigate uncertainties. They must also inspire and empower others, rather than ruling with authority alone.

A successful leader must be a good communicator, capable of listening and understanding different perspectives. They should also be proactive, always looking for opportunities to improve and innovate. Finally, they must lead by example, demonstrating integrity and commitment in all aspects of their work.

In today’s digital age, leaders must also be tech-savvy and data-driven. The ability to analyse information, make informed decisions, and leverage technology to drive progress is essential. Furthermore, ethical leadership has become increasingly important, with leaders expected to uphold social and environmental responsibilities.

What advice would you give to aspiring leaders?

First, always be willing to learn. Leadership is a continuous journey of growth and self-improvement. Second, be honest and transparent. People will follow a leader they trust. Integrity is the foundation of strong leadership. Third, take responsibility. Leaders do not blame others for failures; they take accountability and find solutions. Lastly, focus on empowering others. Leadership is not about personal success but about building a team that can achieve great things together. A true leader creates more leaders, not just followers.

Aspiring leaders should also be resilient. There will be failures and setbacks along the way, but persistence and adaptability will help them overcome obstacles. They should seek mentorship and surround themselves with people who challenge them to grow. Great leaders are not born; they are made through experience, dedication, and a commitment to making a difference.