David Freund, Chief Leadership Officer at the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY), has published a follow-up to his earlier reflections on leadership changes. In his latest post, Freund discusses his transition from focusing on personal achievement to prioritizing the growth and performance of others.
Freund identifies six key roles that leaders should adopt as they move from being individual contributors to conductors who facilitate success for their teams. He states, “They push you to do your best. They pull you up the difficult hills. They stand beside you when you need a break. They walk with you when you need encouragement along the journey. They run before you to model the way. They sit behind you when it’s your turn to shine.”
He emphasizes that leadership is not about personal accomplishments but about helping others reach their potential. “A conductor shifts from competing to completing — from personal performance to improving the performance of others,” Freund writes.
To support this shift, Freund outlines six areas for personal development in 2026: relationships, equipping others, attitude, leadership, communication, and faith. He notes the importance of building strong connections, understanding tools for success, maintaining a positive outlook, adapting leadership skills for new workforce demographics such as Generation Z, becoming a better listener, and strengthening his faith.
Freund explains that he has begun using a program he developed called Planning My Path of Growth and has set goals for daily improvement in these areas. He also plans to dedicate one hour each day during the workweek to intentional growth and invites colleagues and community members to hold him accountable. “Encouragement and accountability from my community will make all the difference,” he says.
Looking ahead to 2026, Freund shares his theme for the year: “Be Amazed!”
The post concludes with an invitation for readers to subscribe to MACNY’s newsletter “The Next Shift: Where People and Performance Advance.”
