David Beaty never planned on becoming a banker. What began as "practice" for a job interview - while still planning to attend university and become an accountant - transformed into a remarkable 39-year career at Midland Bank and HSBC. 

David has since established Bali Consulting, using his experience to provide leadership coaching and consultancy. He was a school governor and trustee of a fast-growing Staffordshire multi-academy trust for over ten years.

What makes a leader effective over four decades spanning economic cycles, technological revolutions, and unprecedented challenges like the COVID pandemic? 

He distils leadership success into just seven words: "make brilliant appointments, set clear direction, empower." This deceptively simple framework guided him from managing 50 people to overseeing nearly 900 staff as head of HSBC UK Business Banking.

Listen now to discover how accidental beginnings can lead to extraordinary impact when guided by clear values and consistent leadership.

Let us know what you think of this episode - drop us a message and connect via LinkedIn.