Leslie Szamosi: In AI “era” effective business leadership is more critical than ever

Banks.am's interview with Professor Leslie Szamosi, Dean of the School of Business at York University Europe Campus and Director in the Pan-European Executive MBA programme.

- York University Europe Campus is the partner of the Fast Forward 2026 conference. Perhaps, this reflects the importance you attach to open and frank discussions of issues related to business leadership in Armenia.

- Business leadership, cutting edge leadership, is absolutely critical for business development for companies both inside Armenia and in the global marketplace. 


Business leadership is critical to a country's development because it acts as a primary engine for economic growth, innovation and social stability. Effective business leaders navigate complex global trends and translate strategic visions into practical actions that create value for both the local economy and society at large.  

- One of the conference topics is the institute of independent directors. In your opinion, how important is this institute for ensuring the “maturity” of Armenian businesses?

- The institute of independent directors is a real sign that Armenian businesses are coming of age. Global dedicated organizations train and certificate of independent directors and board members helping them bridge potential gaps between knowledge and practice and navigate complex and potentially acrimonious boardroom dynamics and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) requirements.  

- Another topic of the conference is business succession in Armenia. 

- Business succession is very often a missed dynamic in businesses today. Senior managers and owners become so absorbed in day-to-day operations that they forget about succession. 

Business succession planning needs to be seen as a strategic imperative that is directly linked to trying to ensure operational continuity, financial stability, and long-term growth and development rather than simply a one-time event.  

Succession is a continuous process of identifying and developing future leaders to prevent disruptive "leadership vacuums". It is also a way to encourage staff by identifying those who are ready, willing, and able to step up when the time arises. This is even more critical in family based businesses as the founders hand their “baby” to the next generation.

- Are these topics addressed in one way or another with the students of your Pan-European Executive MBA program?

- All of the issues we have discussed are critically addressed with our students in the Pan-European Executive MBA program. From day one through the conclusion of the program these critical elements of leadership, among others, form the foundations for developing the next generation of Armenian business leaders ready to challenge a global marketplace. 

In this “era” of AI orientation, effective business leadership is more critical than ever in terms of shifting from the “nice to have” to a strategic imperative.  AI cannot replicate the uniquely human elements of leadership, such as setting aspirations, making complex moral judgments, and building deep trust. Bottom-line the “human” elements built around leadership will also be critical to building the Armenian business of tomorrow.