Last May, when Leeds United lost their Premier League promotion bid at Wembley Stadium, something remarkable happened. Instead of letting players disperse into their private pain, manager Daniel Farke gathered his devastated team for what was supposed to be a victory party. In that moment of collective grief, he laid the groundwork for the season ahead.
The turnaround didn’t come from acquiring star players or tactical genius. It came from a fundamental culture shift, led by captain Ethan Ampadu. In one defining moment before the new season, Ampadu chose to distribute bonuses equally among all players, from starters to substitutes. As one insider noted, “something has changed here, that’s an excellent sign.”
This principle-character before competence-applies to every organization aiming to scale. When Leeds rebuilt their squad, they prioritized players with “mettle and steel” rather than focusing solely on skill or resale value. They understood that lasting success requires people who can weather adversity together.
Your organization’s culture emerges from moments like these:
- How leaders respond to failure
- Whether rewards acknowledge everyone’s contribution
- Which qualities matter most in hiring
Building teams that last isn’t about assembling the most talented individuals; it’s about assembling the right individuals. It’s about creating environments where character drives performance. As Ampadu demonstrated, authentic leadership involves lifting others, especially during the most challenging times.
