The Model Black

Outline

The Model Black (2022) examines the experiences of successful Black British leaders working within major organisations. Based on interviews with senior professionals, Barbara Banda explores the pressure to adapt to established workplace expectations while maintaining an authentic identity. The book encourages leaders and organisations to recognise hidden barriers, broaden their understanding of leadership, and create fairer environments in which talent can thrive.

• The book is built on interviews with senior Black British professionals who have succeeded inside major organisations.
• Many successful leaders feel pressure to adapt to established workplace expectations, even as they try to stay true to who they are.
• Barriers to progress are often hidden, and leaders and organisations need to learn to see them.
• Leadership can be understood more broadly, so that more kinds of talent are recognised and valued.
• Fairer workplaces are ones where talent can thrive, not just fit a narrow mould.

Barbara Banda is a leadership consultant, executive coach, researcher, and founder of Barbara Banda Consulting. She works with senior leaders and organisations on strategy, culture, inclusion, and organisational development. Her research into the experiences of Black British executives forms the foundation of The Model Black and its examination of identity and leadership.