Sally Foley-Lewis

Building Your Leadership Burger: How to Layer the Essential Ingredients for Success
Sally Foley Lewis
July 01, 2025

Middle managers are the burgers of the workplace, not just a filler between two buns, but where all the magic happens. Without the middle, organisations would be left with an empty bread bun. So how do we make sure your leadership burger isn't some soggy takeaway disaster, but rather a mouth-watering, nutritious masterpiece that has everyone coming back for seconds? Let's break down each ingredient and explore how you can develop them intentionally.

Career Plateaus: Recognising When You're Stuck and How to Break Through
Sally Foley Lewis
April 01, 2025

Are you working harder than ever but feeling like you're running on a corporate treadmill? That promotion you've been eyeing seems to be getting further away, not closer. Your colleagues are zooming past while you're stuck in the same role, doing the same tasks you mastered years ago.

What if your leadership style doesn't have to fit in a box?
Sally Foley Lewis
March 25, 2025

Ever feel like you're trying to squeeze yourself into someone else's leadership suit? Maybe it's time to tear up that old pattern and design something that actually fits you.

Traditional leadership models have their place , but today we're going to explore how breaking free from these constraints might be exactly what your team - and what you - need. Let's dive in!

The invisible bridge: why middle managers are the true heroes of corporate success
Sally Foley Lewis
March 25, 2025

Let's talk about something that might make you smile - have you ever thought about how much you have in common with a perfect burger? No, really! Just like the best part of a burger is that juicy middle, YOU are the flavourful centre of your organisation. You're where the real magic happens!

Are Gen Z Leaders the Key to Transforming Middle Management?
Linkedln
December 20, 2024

There’s a growing conversation in the workplace that’s impossible to ignore: will Gen Z step up to middle management, or will they change the game entirely? For businesses, this question matters more than ever. Middle managers  are the bridge between vision and execution, but Gen Z seems more hesitant than ever to take on these roles. Let’s dive into why, and how businesses can adapt to keep this promising generation engaged and thriving.

Why Skills Management Should Be Every Leader’s Priority
Linkedln
December 12, 2024

One thing I’ve learned through my years of working with middle managers and organisations is this: the key to sustained success lies in how well we develop and align our people’s skills. I recently came across an article on embedding skills management into company culture, and it struck a chord. The way we approach skills isn’t just a “nice-to-have”; it’s a necessity for thriving in today’s fast-paced world.

5 Training Tips to Empower Your Managers Today!
Linkedln
December 04, 2024

Let’s face it: middle managers are the backbone of every successful organisation. They’re the connectors, the motivators, and the leaders who translate big-picture strategies into real-world results. Yet, even the best managers can feel the pressure of being stuck in the middle—balancing executive demands with team expectations.

Do You Think Middle Managers Should Be Erased?
Linkedln
November 28, 2024

The gist? Amazon’s CEO, Andy Jassy, is leading a major shake-up aimed at flattening the org chart, cutting out middle managers, and theoretically making things “faster” and “leaner.” But, as tempting as a slimmed-down hierarchy may sound, I can’t help but feel we’re missing the point here – and a few vital people along the way!

Are Gen Z Leaders the Key to Transforming Middle Management?
Sally Foley Lewis
November 19, 2024

There’s a growing conversation in the workplace that’s impossible to ignore: will Gen Z step up to middle management, or will they change the game entirely? For businesses, this question matters more than ever. Middle managers  are the bridge between vision and execution, but Gen Z seems more hesitant than ever to take on these roles. Let’s dive into why, and how businesses can adapt to keep this promising generation engaged and thriving.

2025 is Approaching: Are You Ready to Lead Confidently?
Sally Foley Lewis
November 12, 2024

As you approach the end of another year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your professional growth and consider how you can step up your skills as you move into 2025. In an ever-evolving world of work, particularly for middle managers, staying ahead means more than just maintaining the status quo—it’s about embracing the journey of continuous learning.

Curious Middle Managers: Unlocking Leadership Success
Sally Foley Lewis
November 05, 2024

When it comes to effective leadership, one often overlooked trait is curiosity. For middle managers, curiosity isn’t just a nice-to-have quality—it’s a game-changer. Imagine a leader as an explorer, navigating unknown terrains. The curious leader doesn’t stick to the well-worn path; they question, probe, and discover new routes that lead to innovation and progress. In fact, according to “Francesca Gino of Harvard Business School, 92% of respondents credited curious people with bringing new ideas into teams and organisations and viewed curiosity as a catalyst for job satisfaction, motivation, innovation and high performance.

The Unseen Role Models: Middle Managers and the Power of Constant Observation
Sally Foley Lewis
October 22, 2024

We often read about senior leaders, executives and the C-suite as being the role models of the organisation. However, what many middle managers might not realise is that they too are being observed far more than they think. Every decision they make, every action they take, and even the behaviours they display when they assume no one is watching contribute to the culture and dynamics of the workplace. As a result, middle managers are not just managing—they are constantly role modelling, whether consciously or not.

Want to Stand Out as a Middle Manager? Here’s How
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October 15, 2024

You know, being a middle manager is tough. You’re juggling the expectations of your boss, your team, and everything in between. I’ve been there, and I know how overwhelming it can feel. But here’s the thing – the middle isn’t a bad place to be. In fact, it’s where you can really shine and have the biggest impact on your team and your organisation.

The Good, Bad, and Ugly of Middle Managers’ Well-Intended Open-Door Policy
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September 30, 2024

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Cultivating a Supportive Work Environment to Keep Top Talent
Linkedln
September 26, 2024

As leaders, your ability to communicate confidently about your skills and knowledge is paramount for establishing authority and influence.

Cultivating a Supportive Work Environment to Keep Top Talent
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September 23, 2024

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Communicate Your Knowledge and Skills
Linkedln
September 19, 2024

As leaders, your ability to communicate confidently about your skills and knowledge is paramount for establishing authority and influence.

Communicate Your Knowledge and Skills
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September 16, 2024

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Mastering Retention: How to Build a Work Environment That Keeps Your Top Talent Engaged
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September 10, 2024

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Unlock the Secrets to Confident Leadership
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September 02, 2024

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The Urgent Need for Middle Managers to Embrace AI
Linkedln
August 28, 2024

With new trends like 'the great unbossing' and the rapidly increasing rate of change with tools and technology, middle managers are at a critical juncture. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is not just a technological shift; it’s a fundamental change in how businesses operate. For middle managers, the urgency to come to terms with modern tools like AI is more pressing than ever.

Creating Your Leadership Path: How to Transition from Follower to Leader
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August 26, 2024

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Tips for Fostering a Positive Work Environment
Linkedln
August 22, 2024

Ever walked into work and felt the weight of a negative atmosphere? It can be disconcerting and if it carries on can be draining, right? As leaders, it's our job to turn that around and set the tone for a positive work environment. Let’s dive into some actionable advice on how to create and maintain a positive organisational culture that will transform your team’s experience.

Tips for Fostering a Positive Work Environment
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August 20, 2024

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The Power of Networking: Unlocking New Opportunities
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August 12, 2024

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The Middle Matters
Sally Foley-Lewis
November 21, 2023

As a CEO or senior executive, it’s not always easy or straightforward to bridge the leadership gap between your frontline and your senior ranks. If you relate to this, The Middle Matters is the book for you. Packed with proven practical strategies and techniques, the guide will help you build a strong and cohesive middle management team.

Spark: 9 Simple Strategies to Ignite Exceptional Self-Leadership
Sallyanne Foley-Lewis
December 25, 2021

Leaders today struggle to engage and influence despite seemingly endless screen time and being in more meetings than ever before.

Delegate: Double the Results! Halve the Effort!
Sallyanne Foley-Lewis
November 25, 2019

You feel it would be easier if you just do it yourself. You want to delegate but don't know how. You don't know if you can trust the work will get done to the right standard

Successful Feedback: How Leaders Can Increase Performance, Motivate and Engage Their Team
Thorpe-Bowker
September 20, 2018

Have you ever been on the rough end of feedback?Have you ever avoided that awkward conversation?Have you started a feedback conversation on a positive note, then suddenly, from what seems out of nowhere, there are tears, blame, anger and frustration?You are not alone!Feedback needs structure.Feedback conversations can be easy. Feedback is a human process not a paperwork task. Let this book be your guide!Successful Feedback removes the guesswork out of giving and receiving feedback and performance conversations.Successful Feedback gives you a structured, solutions-oriented and engaging road map for performance conversations

The Productive Leader: How to Achieve More, Reduce Stress and Gain 2 Hours Per Day
Sally Foley-Lewis
November 01, 2017

The productive leader knows how to achieve more. They reduce stress, maximise their time and stay focused by leveraging their skills, people and resources. They are in control, inspire others and are happier.

Sally Foley-Lewis CSP FILP MBA
Sally Foley
May 03, 2010

I'm an expert in skilling and empowering middle managers to inspire their teams, collaborate across the organisation, and influence upwards for greater strategic value. With more than 20 years experience and highly qualified, I have diverse local and international leadership and management experience. I know middle management, I seen it from every vantage point!

Certified Speaking Professional
Professional Speakers Australia
December 23, 2022

The Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) accreditation is an international designation that recognises the experience and professional capability of Australia’s leading speakers.

CSP Accredited members have a proven track record of capturing the audience and consistently delivering value from the platform. They have achieved a high level of experience and success in their business and are positioned as leaders in the industry.

The accreditation program is an essential element in continuing to improve and advance the speaking profession and industry nationally.

Rule 2025: EmpowerME Masterclass
Sally Foley-Lewis
December 12, 2024

Step into 2025 with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Redefine your leadership and rule your year ahead.

Management Success Card Snippets
Sally Foley-Lewis
January 01, 2024

Throughout my career, all over the world, I’ve met hundreds of managers and leaders from all walks of life and the one constant I’ve found is that we all learn differently. I created Management Success Cards to cater to the needs of frantically busy managers and leaders who seek instant extreme focus learning.

65 colour-coded management skill development cards designed to coach you through your professional development. The 12 essential management skills are covered in the deck. Each card will inspire and drive you to think and act confidently, productively and successfully.

Check out the Snippets videos.

Building Your Leadership Burger: How to Layer the Essential Ingredients for Success
Thinkers360
July 10, 2025

Ever thought about how your leadership style is a bit like making a ripper burger? No? Well, stick with me here because this tasty metaphor might just change how you approach your role as a middle manager.

Middle managers are the burgers of the workplace, not just a filler between two buns, but where all the magic happens. Without the middle, organisations would be left with an empty bread bun. So how do we make sure your leadership burger isn't some soggy takeaway disaster, but rather a mouth-watering, nutritious masterpiece that has everyone coming back for seconds? Let's break down each ingredient and explore how you can develop them intentionally.

The Protein: Your Values Foundation

Just as a burger needs a solid protein base, your leadership needs strong values. But here's the thing, you can't just slap any old values on your leadership burger and expect it to taste right.

Quick Exercise: Grab a cuppa and jot down your top 5 values. Now for the real test, ask yourself honestly: "Did these guide my decisions last week?" If you're umming and ahhing, it might be time to revisit what truly matters to you.

When you're crystal clear on your values, decision-making becomes less of a headache and more of a straightforward process.

The Cheese: Self-Awareness That Matures

Like a beautiful aged cheddar, self-awareness develops complexity and depth over time. But unlike cheese, self-awareness doesn't happen by just sitting around in a cool, dark place (though some quiet reflection time isn't a bad idea).

Practical Tip: Start a "leadership reflection journal", but before you roll your eyes, I'm only talking about 3-5 minutes at the end of your day. Ask yourself:

• What situation today brought out my best leadership qualities?

• What triggered a reaction I'm not proud of?

• What would I do differently next time?

The more you understand about your triggers, strengths, and blind spots, the more effectively you can lead. It's like knowing exactly how much cheese to add, too little and your burger lacks flavour, too much and it overwhelms everything else.

The Tomato: Communication That Adds Vibrancy

Communication is your tomato,bright, flavourful, and cuts through the richness of everything else. But just like you wouldn't chuck a whole, unsliced tomato on your burger, your communication needs to be properly prepared.

Communication Hack: Before your next important conversation, take 30 seconds to jot down your intention. Are you aiming to inspire? Collaborate? Influence? Knowing your intent helps you choose the right words, tone, and approach.

Remember, effective communication isn't about telling people things,it's about creating understanding, building trust, and moving people to action. If your team isn't quite catching what you're throwing, it might be time to adjust your pitch.

The Lettuce: Building a Legacy That Grows

Legacy might seem like something you worry about at the end of your career, but that's like waiting until you've finished cooking to plant your lettuce, it doesn't work that way, mate!

Legacy Builder: Identify one team member who could benefit from your mentorship. Schedule a regular 15-minute check-in focused entirely on their development, not on tasks or projects. What skills could you help them cultivate? What doors could you open for them?

Your legacy isn't just what you accomplish; it's who you help grow along the way. The seemingly small seeds you plant today,the time you invest in others, the culture you create will flourish into the legacy you leave behind.

The Pickles: Problem-Solving with Zest

Every leadership role comes with its share of pickles (see what I did there?). But like those tangy circles of goodness, challenges add character and cut through the mundane.

Decision-Making Framework: Next time you face a tough decision, try the 10/10/10 rule. How will you feel about this decision 10 minutes from now? 10 months from now? 10 years from now? This simple perspective shift can help you avoid short-term thinking.

Great problem-solvers don't avoid the pickle jar,they develop a process for tackling challenges systematically, considering multiple perspectives, and making decisions that align with broader goals.

The Secret Sauce: Lifting Others

What makes your leadership truly special isn't just how well you perform, it's how you help others shine. Your secret sauce is how you lift your team to heights they might not reach on their own.

Team-Lifting Challenge: In your next team meeting, try "spotlight moments" where you highlight specific contributions from team members who might otherwise fly under the radar. Not just the usual suspects, but those quiet achievers whose work deserves recognition.

When you actively look for ways to develop others, you create a ripple effect that extends far beyond your immediate influence. That's the kind of leadership that people remember and strive to emulate.

Putting It All Together

A great burger isn't just about having all the right ingredients,it's about how they come together. Each element complements the others, creating an experience that's more than the sum of its parts.

Similarly, exceptional middle leadership isn't about mastering these ingredients in isolation. It's about developing them intentionally and using them together to create impact.

The beauty of the burger approach is that you can focus on strengthening one ingredient at a time. Maybe your values are rock solid, but your communication could use some work. Or perhaps you're a problem-solving whiz who needs to invest more in legacy-building.

Wherever you are in your leadership journey, remember this: the best is in the middle. You're not just holding things together,you're adding flavour, creating experiences, and making the whole organisation more satisfying.

Now, who's hungry for some leadership development?

Would you retreat?
Thinkers360
November 04, 2024

Evach year I design and deliver a big experience for middle managers, and for a while now I've been asked to consider running a retreat. What would you like to experience in a retreat? Your input via this quick survey form would be greatly appreciated.

https://forms.gle/9T5dPikDQpYwxZea6

I would run a men's only, a women's only, or management team (internal) retreats.

I appreciate you
Sally

 

What does a leadership and mindset luxury retreat look like to you?
Thinkers360
September 02, 2024

I’ve been wanting to run a luxury retreat for a long time and have had many leaders tell me they would love to attend. So, it’s time to plan and make it happen for you! I would like to co-create this experience with you.

I’ve put together this quick survey to help me craft and create exactly what you want and need in an international luxury leadership, personal and professional development, and mindset / wellbeing retreat. 

If you could please take 5 minutes to complete the survey I’d greatly appreciate it.

https://forms.gle/ZgN3G823gqYo7VRk9 

Thank you so much for your time.

I appreciate you
Sally

Forgiveness versus Permission: The impact on your leadership brand
Thinkers360
July 29, 2024

Misuse of the Quote

What do you think of this situation?

1. What do you think the venue would think of the company if they discover the use of the AV via a personal use of the connecting cord?
2. What do you think the team members around the room think of the attitude of the person who suggests this?
3. And, what about the leader who lets this happen?

The Cons and Dangers

1. Risk of Misjudgment: Acting without permission can lead to decisions that are poorly thought out or misaligned with organisational goals, causing more harm than good.
2. Erosion of Trust: Consistently bypassing established procedures can erode trust between employees and management, leading to a breakdown in communication and cooperation.
3. Legal and Ethical Issues: Actions taken without appropriate approval can result in legal and ethical violations, exposing the organisation to significant risks and liabilities.

Three positive impacts of the quote's philosophy:

 
1. Encourages Initiative: One significant advantage is that it fosters a culture of initiative. Employees are empowered to make decisions and take actions without the fear of red tape, promoting innovation and agility. This needs to be within the scope of delegated authority!
2. Speeds Up Processes: In fast-paced industries, waiting for permission can slow down progress. This approach allows for quicker responses to opportunities and challenges. This happens properly when senior leadership empowers their mid-level managers openly, genuinely, fully to 'get on with it'. This is often assumed and is rarely discussed explicitly and often! 
3. Fosters Innovation: By removing the fear of immediate disapproval, individuals are more likely to experiment and try new ideas, which can lead to breakthroughs and advancements.
 
Impact on Middle Managers and Leadership Brand
 
Middle managers, in particular, must balance the empowerment of their teams with adherence to organisational norms. When used judiciously, Hopper’s philosophy can enhance a manager's leadership brand by showcasing decisiveness and a willingness to take calculated risks. However, overreliance on this approach can damage their reputation, making them appear reckless or untrustworthy.

"It's easier to ask for forgiveness than it is to get permission" is a powerful principle when understood and applied correctly. It promotes innovation and swift action but must be tempered with a thorough understanding of the potential consequences. Middle managers who navigate this balance effectively can enhance their leadership impact, fostering a culture of trust and agility within their teams.

I'm speaking at PCMA Asia Pacific
Thinkers360
April 05, 2024

I am speaking at The Business of Events powered by PCMA Asia Pacific, at Maina Bay Sands, Singapore on Monday 15th April 2024, where the day's theme will be UNLEARN.

My really excited to be speaking at this event and to be at Marina Bay Sands - it's such a beautiful venue.

My topic is The Future of Middle Managers

A Gallup study revealed that middle managers account for 70% of team engagement variance. These individuals, often considered as influencers and shapers of organisational culture, play a pivotal role in the evolving workforce. Known as the “doers” and reliable pillars in stressful times, their significance is undeniable. However, there’s a need to question if leaders fully grasp the challenges middle managers face. This session aims to shed light on tackling these pain points through unlearning and offer strategies to optimise middle management performance, thereby enhancing overall organisational effectiveness.

Check out the event here: https://www.pcma.org/apac/thebusinessofevents-programme-day-unlearn/

I absolutely love the idea of reframing our thinking, no matter what industry you're in.

What do you need to UNLEARN in order to be, think, do better?

In the lead up to this amazing event, I was interviewed by PCMA, I'm currently featured on their front page (tad excited about that), you can check out the interview here: https://www.pcma.org/great-leadership-starts-with-self-leadership-how-middle-managers-fit-events-industry/

LIFT THEM TO LEAD: THE FUTURE OF MIDDLE MANAGERS

Location: Anywhere - Travel from Brisbane, Au    Fees: $7,500

Service Type: Service Offered

The Critical Role of Middle Matters in Organisational Success

A Gallup study revealed that middle managers account for 70% of team engagement variance. These individuals, often considered as influencers and shapers of organisational culture, play a pivotal role in the engaging the workforce and driving business. Known as the “doers” and reliable pillars in stressful times, their significance is undeniable. In today’s world of work, we must challenge if organisation’s fully grasp the challenges middle managers face. This session aims to shed light on tackling these pain points through unlearning and offer strategies to optimise middle management performance, thereby enhancing overall organisational effectiveness.

Three Key Takeaways:
Exploring the value of middle managers for the success of every business: the triple corporate conquest.
Busting myths on what works and doesn’t work for optimising middle manager performance.
From complex to simple: the one thing that will amplify performance.

THE FUTURE OF MIDDLE MANAGERS

Location: Anywhere - Travel from Brisbane, Au    Fees: $7,500

Service Type: Service Offered

The Critical Role of Middle Matters in Organisational Success

A Gallup study revealed that middle managers account for 70% of team engagement variance. These individuals, often considered as influencers and shapers of organisational culture, play a pivotal role in the engaging the workforce and driving business. Known as the “doers” and reliable pillars in stressful times, their significance is undeniable. In today’s world of work, we must challenge if organisation’s fully grasp the challenges middle managers face. This session aims to shed light on tackling these pain points through unlearning and offer strategies to optimise middle management performance, thereby enhancing overall organisational effectiveness.

Three Key Takeaways:
Exploring the value of middle managers for the success of every business: the triple corporate conquest.
Busting myths on what works and doesn’t work for optimising middle manager performance.
From complex to simple: the one thing that will amplify performance.

The Five Key Ingredients (& Secret Sauce) of High Performing Middle Managers

Location: Anywhere - Travel from Brisbane, Au    Fees: $7,500

Service Type: Service Offered

In the dynamic realm of modern business, middle managers play a pivotal role as the bridge between organisational vision and day-to-day operations. In the captivating speech, “The Five Key Ingredients (& Secret Sauce) of High Performing Middle Managers,” we delve into the essential habits that set apart exceptional middle managers who drive sustainable success.

At its core, this discourse centres on the intrinsic connection between values, self-awareness, legacy, communication, and developing others. A thought-provoking exploration ensues, underscoring how “your values are what you stand for” and how “your legacy says what you stood for.” These mottos resonate as guiding principles for middle managers to align their actions with personal and organisational values, ensuring a legacy that endures.

Emphasising the notion that “leaders are lifters,” this speech unpacks the power of effective communication as a tool for uplifting teams and fostering a collaborative environment. Furthermore, the critical role of self-awareness in harnessing strengths and mitigating weaknesses is illuminated, showcasing its pivotal influence on managerial excellence.

The pivotal aspect of developing others, cultivating talent, and nurturing growth becomes evident as the speech unfurls. Through poignant anecdotes and empirical evidence, attendees will gain insights into how high-performing middle managers contribute to a culture of empowerment and innovation.

Ultimately, “The Five Key Ingredients (& Secret Sauce) of High Performing Middle Managers” encapsulates a blueprint for elevating managerial prowess, transcending conventional approaches, and leaving an indelible mark on organisations and individuals alike. This presentation promises to be a transformative experience, inspiring leaders to embrace their roles with renewed zeal, guided by a clear set of values, self-awareness and the commitment to uplift their teams.

Main Takeaways:
Key Takeaway 1: Values and Legacy Alignment Align actions with personal and organizational values to create a lasting legacy.

Key Takeaway 2: Communication for Uplifting, Effective communication is a powerful tool to inspire and collaborate.

Key Takeaway 3: The Power of Self-Awareness Self-awareness is essential for managerial excellence, helping leverage strengths and address weaknesses.

Key Takeaway 4: Developing Others and Cultivating Talent Middle managers play a pivotal role in nurturing talent, fostering empowerment and innovation.

Key Takeaway 5: A Blueprint for Excellence This speech provides a transformative blueprint for middle managers to make a lasting impact on organisations and individuals.