Meet an ATD 2015 Featured Speaker: Bruno Rouffaer

Bruno Rouffaer, an ATD 2015 speaker, answers questions relating to the content of his ATD 2015 session, “The Big Bad Boss Era is Over.” This is part of the Global HRD Featured Speakers blog series.

What is the title of your presentation?

The Big Bad Boss Era is Over (SU408)

In light of the talent war among companies, this session will strive to take a deeper look at how to attract, develop, and retain young, talented people. History has proven that poor leaders are driven by greed, narcissism, and arrogance. We will elaborate on some world leadership issues affecting the new generations. The world needs a new generation of young leaders that possess economic, social, and cultural sensitivity and the awareness to implement change. Rational Intelligence is not enough. As these new leaders are developed they will have other needs, expectations, and talents. When companies adapt to this new way of leadership thinking, they develop other talents and competencies, earn more profit, and have holistic and authentic leaders.

Why is this topic important for learning and talent development professionals?

Attendees will develop and apply new leadership values and translate them into applicable leadership competencies for talent development. In the past we have focused too much on knowledge and skill competencies and not on human talent competencies. People will gain insights into the pitfalls of bad leadership traits and how to avoid them.

What will be the top three takeaways from your presentation?

• Leadership lessons from the past, present, and future

• What do the new generations really need?

• What are the top leadership competencies for future successful leaders?

What is your experience with the ATD International Conference & Exposition?

Make sure you know which sessions you want to attend before you get to the conference. Only go to the best sessions, and switch if the first five minutes are boring. Stay in constant contact with your friends so you can exchange information immediately!

What do you expect to get out of this year’s ATD 2015 International Conference & Exposition?

Every year, I arrive with an “empty box” mind, and return with an “overloaded box” mind filled with ideas and insights.

What are some suggestions you have for attendees to get the most out of their experience at ATD 2015?

Prepare, prepare, prepare, and enjoy! For me, the cultural mix is the most important part. Here we find one another: Race, religion, color, and gender disappears. ATD unites.