By Pia Lee, CEO, LIW

A recent trans-Pacific flight whizzed by with the compelling accompaniment of John Carreyrou’s ‘Bad Blood.’ It chronicles the rise and fall of Theranos, a medical technology company which falsely claimed to have devised blood tests from finger pricks.

 The young CEO, Elizabeth Holmes, led the singularly focused and increasingly deceptive charge, raising $1bn in funding and hoodwinking many prestigious investors and big brand corporates.

 What does this mean for leadership? 

When does a noble purpose breach ethical boundaries and make lying almost permissible?  

Whilst passion, energy and resilience all create the intoxicating fuel for purpose, it’s the system of integrity we build around us that keeps us from veering off course. Governance, mentors, feedback and an open culture prevent the precious ego from being corrupted. 

That can make the difference between success and jail.

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