06/02/2025

Why the Best Leaders are Chief Meaning Officers

Empower purpose through leadership by weaving stories into work

Jack Welch, the iconic former CEO of General Electric, once said that the role of a leader is to be the organization's Chief Meaning Officer. This wasn't just a catchy phrase—it was a powerful call to action. Welch understood something fundamental about leadership that is only now being supported by a growing body of research: the most effective leaders don't just manage tasks or drive results—they infuse their teams and workplaces with meaning.

Meaning is not a luxury at work—it's a necessity. And in times of burnout, disconnection and economic pressure, the leaders who understand this truth are the ones who will thrive and take their people with them.

The Science Behind Meaning at Work

Let's start with the data. A 2016 MIT Sloan Management Review study found that leaders play a decisive role in either cultivating or destroying meaningful work. Employees reported that meaning came not from perks or pay but from autonomy, relationships and a sense of contributing to something greater—all of which leaders can nurture or sabotage.

Please select this link to read the complete article from Psychology Today.