What Pope Leo XIV’s election can teach business leaders about humility, dialogue, and global vision

On Thursday (yesterday), Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native with deep missionary roots in Peru, was elected Pope Leo XIV – the 267th leader of the Catholic Church and the first American to hold the position.

His election signals a desire for continuity with the values of Pope Francis while introducing a leader known for humility, inclusivity, and global perspective.

1. Leading with humility and presence

Pope Leo XIV is widely admired for his grounded leadership style. Described as “humble and grounded,” he is known for his quiet consistency and spiritual discipline. Even as a senior Church figure, he maintained close ties with his community, often joining fellow clergy for daily meals and prayers.

This approach underscores the power of servant leadership – being accessible, listening actively, and staying connected to the people you lead.

2. Building bridges across divides

In his first address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the need for a “missionary church” that “builds bridges” and “establishes dialogues,” calling for openness and compassion. His background – spanning North and South America, and his fluency in multiple languages – positions him as a unifier in a fragmented world.

For Malta’s business leaders, this highlights the importance of cultural intelligence, empathy, and the ability to foster collaboration across diverse teams and markets.

3. Embracing global perspectives

Pope Leo XIV’s dual US-Peruvian citizenship and his extensive work in Latin America reflect a global mindset. His election was met with enthusiasm worldwide, with leaders from various countries expressing hopes for his leadership to foster peace, dialogue, and support for the oppressed.

This global perspective is crucial for CEOs operating in an interconnected world, emphasizing the value of diverse experiences and inclusive strategies.

4. Prioritizing social responsibility

By choosing the name Leo XIV, the new pope draws a symbolic connection to Pope Leo XIII, known for addressing social issues of his time. This choice signals a commitment to social justice and the Church’s role in addressing contemporary challenges.

Business leaders can take inspiration from this by integrating social responsibility into their core strategies, ensuring that their organizations contribute positively to society.