We are, in many ways, in the age of the ‘team’ rather than the leader. Talk to most people in positions of power and they’ll reiterate the importance of the whole company in creating great work, or explain how a successful brand’s community is what shapes it.

But behind these groups are those who are setting the culture, bringing others into their vision, and making their companies or brands into places that people want to be a part of. There is no one way of doing this; in fact, brilliant creative leadership lies in diversity – of people, voices and styles. This mix is at the heart of this issue, where we ask some of the most interesting leaders around to share their secrets of how they get it done.

In this issue of the magazine, we talk to leaders at major agencies such as adam&eveDDB and Leo Burnett India, as well as newer, experimental setups such as Braw Haus and verb, about the myriad ways they nurture their teams and inspire younger generations. We also speak with designer and illustrator Bráulio Amado about what it’s like to be seen as a leader while eschewing conventional ideas of what that entails.

As well as individual leaders, this issue also looks at a number of brands that are currently leading the way in their use of creativity and design to engage and delight audiences.

Again, we have a mix of the old and the new: we examine how Loop is shaking up earplugs (who knew such an everyday product could be so interesting and varied?); how Guinness is using social media to revolutionise the black stuff’s image; and how CeraVe was inspired by a Reddit thread to create its recent ad campaign – which stole the Super Bowl. Elsewhere we find out how brands like Ganni and Salomon are finding creative ways of honouring their roots while aiming for new highs in their respective worlds of fashion and sportswear.

In addition to profiles on brands and individuals, the issue examines the recent spate of brand apologies, tips on scaling up creative businesses, and the agencies stepping into the role of investors. We have also asked a range of talented creatives who have recently entered the industry what they would like to see and hear from those in charge.

What comes through most in this issue is that great leadership, and in turn great creativity, takes graft. This is never more the case than in our interview with production and set designer Shona Heath, whose work for Yorgos Lanthimos’ epic movie Poor Things (an image from which adorns our cover) won an Oscar this year. Heath’s work is incredible, but as she makes clear, it takes sacrifice and difficult decisions: perhaps moments that all great leaders must face at some point in their careers.

It can be tough at the top; we hope this issue offers some ideas on how to get there and make an impact when you do.

STOCKISTS