Leadership in global health — with Katri Bertram

SummaryIn this conversation, Katri Bertram shares her insights on leadership in global health, discussing the lessons learned from her extensive experience in various organizations. She emphasizes the importance of accountability for results and humility in leadership. We discuss the lack of progress in Universal Health Coverage as a case example calling for leadership. Katri also reflects on the future of global health, and offers advice for young people entering the field. We also talk about the desired leadership traits of the next WHO Director-General. More: singerp.substack.comKeywordsglobal health, leadership, accountability, universal health coverage, future of health, leadership lessons, health systems, mentoring, results-driven leadership, health equityTakeawaysKatri Bertram emphasizes the importance of knowing what you want as a leader.Purpose is crucial for effective leadership in global health.Authentic buy-in from staff is essential for success.Leaders must appreciate the value of their team members.Letting go of control is a significant challenge for leaders.Accountability is key to achieving results in global health.The global health landscape is becoming increasingly fragmented.Young professionals should be encouraged to speak out and ask questions.The golden era of global health funding is over, requiring new leadership approaches.Health is inherently political, and leaders must take responsibility for their actions.Sound Bites"Health is a political choice.""The golden era is over.""We need more people speaking out."Chapters00:00 Leadership Lessons in Global Health07:16 The Essence of Effective Leadership14:31 Best and Worst Leadership Experiences21:20 Accountability and Results in Global Health27:53 Accountability in Global Health28:48 The End of the Golden Era?29:55 Future of Global Health Leadership33:47 Fragmentation and Competition in Leadership36:50 The Role of WHO in Global Health41:26 Existential Questions for WHO42:34 Unifying Goals in Global Health45:22 Health as a Political Choice47:54 Leadership Roles in Global Health50:34 Advice for Young Global Health ProfessionalsLinksKatri Bertram’s blog on leadershiphttps://katribertram.wordpress.com/2025/11/24/lead-the-ship/Peter Singer’s blog on leadership in global healthSingerp.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit singerp.substack.com