Lead Like an Italian: Lessons in Presence, Passion, and Connection

I have traveled extensively, yet no journey has ever left me quite as undone as my recent trip to Italy. One week at a fitness retreat in Le Sirenuse, nestled in the heart of Positano, and I returned home overcome with a feeling of tenderness, an awakening I could not quite name. It wasn’t just the breathtaking scenery, the azure waters, or the sun-drenched cliffs that held me in rapture. It was something deeper—something that spoke to the very essence of what it means to be present, to lead with heart, and to embrace life’s moments with intention.

The Art of Presence

Everywhere I turned, there was a reverence for the present moment. Giovanni, our guide, led us through winding paths, pausing not just to ensure our footing but to greet neighbours with the warmth of an old friend. He stopped to caress a little girl’s cheek, acknowledging her with the kind of attention that made her grin ear to ear. The elderly woman with her radiant corgi welcomed hikers each morning as if each one were a cherished guest in her home. Every interaction was a reminder: connection is not an afterthought—it is the fabric of daily life.

Grace, Generosity, and Leadership

Carla and Antonio, the gracious owners of Le Sirenuse, redefined hospitality. Their humility and warmth were palpable, their joy in sharing their hotel with us completely genuine. Even as they marvelled at the stunning cliffs of Positano—scenery they had seen a thousand times—they did so with the awe of first-time visitors. Their leadership was not about dominance or efficiency; it was about generosity, grace, and the ability to make others feel truly valued.

Curiosity as a Compass

Then there were the Danish couple Joo Runge and her partner Niklaus—vibrant, athletic, and endlessly curious. Their questions about life, culture, and people revealed a hunger to understand, to go beyond the surface. Their energy spurred me up mountains, but it was their inquisitiveness that made me want to stay close. And Lee, the travel writer with a quiet intellect, taught me the power of storytelling, how the smallest details—a well-placed metaphor, a precise descriptor—can bring a moment to life.

A Lesson in Craftsmanship

Every meal was a masterclass in care and intention. The way Italians prepare food is an art, not an obligation. Each dish, from the fresh pasta to the perfectly balanced espresso, was created with meticulous attention—not rushed, not merely functional, but meant to be savoured. It struck me: how often do we bring this level of craftsmanship to our own work? How often do we create for the sheer pleasure of offering something excellent to others?

The People Who Made It Unforgettable

Roberto Salomone the photojournalist, didn’t just take pictures—he paid attention. His love for the camera was evident, but what moved me most was his love for the truth. In our conversations, I came to understand that his lens was not just about capturing images but about seeking meaning, understanding, and depth.

Then there were Francesco Sersale and Aldo Sersale, two brothers only 11 months apart, who manage the daily operations, day after day role-modelled humility. The grace with which they thanked their waitstaff, the attention they paid to making sure everyone’s needs were taken care of—zero arrogance, full of zest and patience. They exemplified what it means to lead with quiet strength and generosity. It is these qualities that elevate Le Sirenuse beyond a luxury hotel, transforming it into a sanctuary of warmth, connection, and authenticity.

What Italy Taught Me About Leadership

As I returned to the fast pace of home—emails, meetings, notifications—it hit me. My sadness was not just about leaving Italy; it was about leaving behind a way of being. A way of leading. A way of living that prizes slowness, connection, and the full embrace of life’s moments.

Leadership is not about the grind, the hustle, the endless pursuit of efficiency. It is about presence. It is about seeing people, not just managing them. It is about crafting something meaningful, something that speaks to the soul, whether it’s a product, a service, or a simple conversation.

I love the Italians—being second generation myself—but what I cherish most is the profound sense of belonging that comes with being Italian—an embrace that is warm, unwavering, and filled with love.

So I ask you: what would happen if we led like the Italians live? What if we infused our daily interactions with the same warmth, intentionality, and joy?

Maybe, just maybe, we’d all become better leaders—and better humans in the process.