The Future Leader’s Guide to Emotional Intelligence

At our recent Future Connect event, Lead with Emotional Intelligence, leadership coach, author and founder of G Force, Gaëlle Deschamps, explored why emotional intelligence (EQ) is one of the most important leadership skills for the future.

Drawing on more than two decades of experience in corporate leadership, marketing and executive coaching, Gaëlle challenged traditional assumptions about leadership and encouraged attendees to embrace a more human-centred approach. The session explored how emotionally intelligent leaders build trust, create psychological safety and unlock the potential of those around them.

12 Jun 2026

Meet the Speaker: Gaëlle Deschamps

Gaëlle is an award-winning leadership expert, recently named 2026 Director of the Year by the Institute of Directors. With executive education from Harvard, London Business School and Kedge, she has over 20 years of leadership experience with global organisations including L’Oréal, SABMiller and The Coca-Cola Company, where she was Leadership faculty responsible to develop and deliver training for 86,000 employees worldwide.

In 2021, she founded G Force, a leadership and confidence development company dedicated to empowering women and developing the next generation of leaders. A TEDx speaker and organiser, Gaëlle regularly speaks on confidence, inclusive leadership and youth development.

A mother of three, she enjoys co-authoring coaching books with her daughter, alongside yoga, cycling, renovation projects and West Coast Swing. Gaëlle has lived in Paris, Bordeaux, Boston, London and now resides in Jersey.

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Why Emotional Intelligence Matters

While IQ remains important, modern leadership increasingly depends on emotional intelligence.

Emotional intelligence enables leaders to manage their emotions, communicate effectively and build meaningful relationships. It helps individuals stay calm under pressure, navigate uncertainty and understand what motivates others.

The workshop explored the practical behaviours associated with emotionally intelligent leadership, including:

Managing emotions effectively
Reading the room and understanding team dynamics
Communicating clearly and authentically
Recognising signs of stress and burnout
Creating space for others to contribute

These capabilities are not only beneficial for leaders; they are increasingly essential for anyone looking to succeed in collaborative and fast-paced environments.

The Three Systems of Effective Leadership

IQ (Intelligence Quotient)

Helps us think strategically and solve problems. It supports:

- Technical knowledge and expertise
- Strategic thinking
- Analysis and decision-making

EQ (Emotional Intelligence)

Enables us to connect with and influence others. It helps build:

- Trust and engagement
- Team culture and collaboration
- Psychological safety and performance

PI (Physical Intelligence)

Focusses on how we show up and sustain ourselves. It encompasses:

- Presence, energy and confidence
- Flexibility and adaptability
- Resilience and endurance

Leadership isn't about having a title. It's about creating positive impact.
Gaëlle DeschampsFounder, G Force | Experienced Coach

Redefining What Leadership Looks Like

Myth: Leaders are born

Reality: Leaders are made

Myth: Leaders know everything

Reality: Leaders ask for help, rely on their team

Myth: Leaders are always right, never fail

Reality: Leaders fail and bounce back quickly

Myth: Leaders have big titles

Reality: Many leaders lead without a title

Myth: Leaders are extroverts

Reality: Introverts make great leaders too

The Human Advantage in an AI-Powered World

As technology continues to evolve, many technical tasks are becoming increasingly automated. Yet the qualities that define emotionally intelligent leadership remain uniquely human.

In a world increasingly shaped by AI, our competitive advantage lies in our ability to:

Demonstrate empathy

Build meaningful relationships

Inspire and motivate others

Communicate with authenticity

Event photos

Event Series Sponsor

Grant Thornton

Grant Thornton is one of the Channel Islands' leading independent assurance, tax and advisory firms, dedicated to serving the needs of privately held businesses, financial services and private clients.

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