Purpose, Perspective, and Presence in Leadership

Stuart Greif, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy, Innovation & Operating Officer at Forbes Travel Guide, brings together analytical rigor and profound emotional intelligence - leadership shaped by a career spanning consulting, big tech, startups, and global hospitality. His journey is defined by calculated risk-taking, constant learning, and the courage to evolve. Greif believes careers are built through “two-way doors”, decisions that feel intimidating but are often reversible, and that growth comes from seeking challenge rather than staying comfortable. He emphasizes that experience compounds like interest: taking varied roles, learning continuously, and embracing discomfort accelerate leadership maturity. His approach to challenges centers on mindset, recognizing that setbacks are inevitable but asking, “So what? Now what?” He stresses that self-mastery, curiosity, and emotional regulation enable leaders to respond constructively rather than reactively.

Greif is also a powerful advocate for diversity and inclusion. He argues that diverse teams outperform because they bring broader ideas, perspectives, and lived experiences, and he challenges leaders to act, not just affirm, through advocacy, representation, and intentional networking. Whether advising companies, mentoring women and underrepresented professionals, or shaping innovation at Forbes Travel Guide, Greif leads with clarity, inquiry, and compassion. For him, leadership is less about control and more about creating psychological safety, enabling people to thrive, and asking high-quality questions that move organizations forward.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “You can’t lead others if you don’t know yourself first.”
• “Presence is more powerful than perfection.”
• “The quality of your questions defines the quality of your leadership.”
• “Gratitude is the gateway to resilience.”
• “Leadership is not about control. It’s about creating space for others to thrive.”

Closing Reflection

‍Greif’s philosophy illustrates that leadership becomes transformative when intellect aligns with humanity. His insights remind us that growth requires risk, courage, and relentless curiosity; that empowerment begins with knowing ourselves; and that true influence comes from presence, not pressure. When leaders embrace gratitude, ask better questions, and prioritize the “big things” first, they elevate not only their own path, but the people and purpose entrusted to them.