Issue #2

Unexpected Insight for Unconventional Leadership

A festive welcome to issue 2. We're challenging assumptions, surfacing the real dynamics of change, and getting on our soapbox about leadership as an outcome, not a job title.

In this issue:

• Advent thoughts: the Now and Not-yet of inclusive leadership
• New people, new projects and new publications
• In case you missed it: Unlock the Motivation Paradox in Meaningful Work

At Building20, we believe work should be where people thrive because performance is aligned with purpose.

We help organisations and their leadership teams unlock their full potential by keeping their integrity and focusing on what truly matters.

Advent thoughts: the Now and Not-yet of inclusive leadership

Advent invites us into a paradox: to live as though our hopes are here ‘now’ while acknowledging the ways in which they are ‘not yet.’ Working recently with clients on inclusive leadership and change made us reflect on the value of practicing this paradox in system change. Read our thoughts on why and how we must keep taking even just the tiniest next step together.

NEWS from Building20

Welcoming Dr Stephen Backhouse. We're delighted to share the exciting news that Stephen has joined Building20 as a principal consultant alongside founder Dr Amanda Woolley. Stephen is an experienced consultant and advisor to organisations engaging with systemic problems, and an expert in the philosophy of power and leadership development. This is an exciting step for us as we begin to operate Building20 as a co-operative practice.

Co-Creating Inclusive Ways of Working for Durham’s Landscape

Stephen's arrival coincides with our new long term project with a collaboration of 'changemaker' organisations in Durham City. Hosted by the National Trust and Durham County Council, the changemakers are working to realise the potential of the green corridor north of the city to reconnect people with nature, heritage, and community. We've just led the group through its first development sprint, focused on creating inclusive, action-oriented ways of working. Next up for us is Sprint 2 in late 2026, where we’ll be facilitating the co-creation of a collaborative plan to bring the shared vision for this special landscape to life.

Accountability in Complex Systems: Growing Momentum​
Amanda's work on accountability in complex systems is attracting increasing interest! Earlier this month, Amanda had the privilege of leading a webinar for the Coastal Community and Creative Health Partnership. Participants loved the practical steps shared for applying relational accountability in real-world settings. Amanda also contributed a blog for BMJ Leader, offering insights tailored for place-based healthcare leaders who want to offer better accountability to their communities.