Lexie Kirkconnell-Kawana works in a part of the world where pressure reveals what people really stand for.
With a background in law and leadership, and now as CEO of Impress, the UK’s independent press regulator, she sits close to some of the toughest questions in media, trust, accountability, and organisational culture.
In this episode, we get into what ethical leadership actually looks like when things are messy, how values hold up when the rules keep changing, and why leading well now takes more than just saying the right things.
🔗 Find Lexie on LinkedIn
Key takeaways
1️⃣ Authentic leadership is a must
True leadership isn’t about mimicking others, it’s about knowing your unique strengths and aligning them with your organisation’s needs.
2️⃣ Adapting to change is survival
Hybrid working, shifting cultures, and a fast-evolving media landscape demand constant listening and experimenting to find what works.
3️⃣ Diversity takes effort
Real inclusion comes from proactively building networks and recruiting intentionally, not just ticking boxes.
4️⃣ AI regulation is urgent
The rise of generative AI brings both opportunities and risks. Acting now to address misinformation and ethical design is non-negotiable.
5️⃣ Prioritise balance
High-pressure roles require discipline. Rest, wellness, and intentional relationships aren’t just optional, because they fuel long-term success.
In this episode
00:00 Intro to Lexie Kirkconnell-Kawana
04:00 Her path from law to press regulation
05:55 Adapting to UK leadership culture
11:12 What leadership training taught her
14:09 From expert to executive: redefining leadership
19:17 Learning through mentors and networks
22:18 The new era of leadership tribes
24:57 Hybrid work as a leadership challenge
29:45 Building inclusion beyond checkboxes
33:53 The resilience every CEO needs
37:54 Gender dynamics in leadership
41:58 CEO wellbeing and inner balance
45:47 Managing pressure with purpose
49:11 What she gave up to lead
52:33 Media regulation in an AI age
58:14 The role of platforms in disinformation
01:01:17 How to regulate AI responsibly
01:05:33 Where the UK stands in global tech governance
