Blending Purpose and Commercial Impact in Today’s Work Culture
By Helen Wada with Alex Holt
In the latest episode of the Human Wise Podcast, I had the privilege of catching up with Alex Holt—global strategy leader at Accenture, board member of poverty-alleviation charity Job Train, and author of Outpacer. Alex joined us from San Francisco to share his insights on the intersection of business results and authentic, human-centered leadership.
In a world facing rapid technological change, remote work, and shifting generational expectations, how do leaders and teams stay true to their values while driving commercial outcomes?
Alex’s journey—from growing up professionally in London to leading global transformation from Silicon Valley—offers practical lessons for anyone navigating today’s work landscape.
Rediscovering the Human in Business
For much of his career, Alex observed that “People were definitely more reluctant to talk about what they did outside of work. Everything in the office was what defined you.” That’s changing. Today, we’re invited (and sometimes required) to bring more of our “whole self” to our careers.
The big question, says Alex, isn’t just if we’re human at work—but how we blend our personal and organizational purposes.
“It’s a harmony. It’s a harmony in purpose,” Alex explains. “What’s your personal purpose? What’s the purpose of your job? What’s the purpose of the organization? If you can bring those three things together, then you get the magic—and that’s when great things happen for you and your teams.”
Purpose: More Than a Buzzword
While “purpose” can feel like a daunting concept, Alex and I agree it shows up in different ways. For some, it’s about big, world-changing impact. For others, it’s simply being able to support a family, live with balance, and take pride in daily work.
“If you’re missing that sense of alignment—even if the job once fit—it’s okay to pause, re-evaluate, and make a change.”
We discussed the vital role of self-awareness, regular reflection, and honest conversation with coaches, mentors, or friends. What matters to you now? Are you truly thriving, or just comfortable?
Impact Comes from Authenticity
Cultural differences offer a fascinating lens. In Alex’s experience, “People on the West Coast [of the US] are much prouder to say they love their job… In the UK, people might be a little more reluctant.” Celebrating what makes you come alive at work is not just a cultural quirk—it’s a prerequisite for high-impact leadership.
Helen: “The leaders who have the greatest impact are those who know themselves, show up authentically, and create an environment where others can do the same.”
Demystifying Sales: Selling Isn’t “Sleazy”—It’s About Service
So many professionals—especially those from technical or advisory backgrounds—feel a shiver down their spine at the word “sales.” But as Alex and I discussed, the most effective “salespeople” are often the most human.
“If you’re in sales, your job is to put the client first: to align your organisation’s strengths to what they genuinely need,” says Alex. “Start by understanding their world—their goals, their risks, even their fears. And never pretend to know what you don’t.”
The best client relationships are built on trust, listening, curiosity, and—when needed—the courage to say “I don’t know” and find the answer together.
AI & the Future: Staying Human in a High-Tech World
With Alex leading technology transformation at Accenture in Silicon Valley, we naturally delved into the impact of AI and automation.
“Digital tools will make us more productive... but the ability to leverage those tools to bring out what is truly human—creativity, values, empathy—will become the differentiator.”
Knowledge is becoming ubiquitous; what sets you apart is how you apply it, connect the dots, and infuse your work with meaning and creativity.
Actionable Tips for Leaders and Teams
Align Your Purpose: Regularly check in on what drives you and your team. Don’t be afraid if your motivators change over time—build environments where people can be open about what makes them thrive.
Lead with Curiosity: In client or team interactions, ask more than you tell. Focus on understanding needs, goals, and risks. Trust is your north star.
Embrace Change: Don’t let inertia trap you. If your environment or role no longer fits, explore what would make you feel “devoted,” not just committed, to your work.
Stay Human in a Digital Age: Use technology to free up time for creativity, empathy, and relationship-building—the skills that machines can’t replicate.
Be Honest About What You Don’t Know: Admitting uncertainty doesn’t diminish your credibility; it enhances trust and enables true partnership.
Final Thoughts: Devotion Over Dedication
As Alex says, “Devotion is a big word. It’s very different from ‘dedication’ or ‘commitment.’ If you can find an environment where you feel truly devoted to your mission, your team, and your own sense of purpose, that’s where you achieve your highest impact.”
What environment would make you feel devoted to your work? What changes—big or small—can you make today to realign your purpose, your team, and your impact?
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For more on this topic, listen to my full conversation with Alex Holt in Human Wise Podcast Episode 38, and let’s continue the conversation—connect with me on LinkedIn.
Human Wise releases new episodes weekly, exploring what it means to be fully human in work and leadership. Available on all major podcast platforms.
Connect with Alex Holt on LinkedIn or check out his book Outpacer for further inspiration on purposeful leadership in a digital age.