18 years at UNICEF UK: How great leaders thrive in uncertainty and constant change

What does it really take to lead with purpose in today’s world? In this episode of Leaders with Purpose, hosts Rebecca Hull and Lou Lai sit down with Louise Lane, Chief Marketing & Partnerships Officer at UNICEF UK, to explore the realities of purpose-led leadership. Louise has spent over 18 years at UNICEF, growing from a marketing executive role into executive leadership. Along the way, she’s led through humanitarian emergencies, shaped global campaigns like Soccer Aid, and steered UNICEF UK through major organisational change. In this episode, Louise shares her reflections on: Building a career with purpose (and making sideways moves that accelerate growth) Leading through uncertainty, ambiguity, and organisational transformation The power of connection, community, and “your village” as a leader Open strategy, co-design, and why progress matters more than perfection This is an honest, candid, and deeply human conversation about leadership in the non-profit and social impact sector but with lessons that resonate far beyond! Whether you’re leading a team, navigating change, or simply curious about the future of leadership, you’ll take away practical wisdom and inspiration to apply in your own journey. Don’t forget to turn your notifications for more conversations with leaders across higher education, culture, membership, social impact, and beyond. References: Who moved my cheese? By Spencer Johnson: https://amzn.eu/d/ceG8Gv1 Uncertainty Experts by Sam Conniff: https://www.uncertaintyexperts.com/ UNICEF UK Soccer Aid: //www.socceraid.org.uk/ Connect with us: Rebecca Hull: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-hull-75a78b39/ Lou Lai: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-lai-3958962a/ Louise Lane: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-lane-2765222a/