Innovation and stability aren’t opposites—they’re partners - Anthony J James I focus on building a strong foundation so we can take smart risks without chaos. That means: 1. Clear core values & vision – A solid purpose keeps us grounded while we experiment. 2. Balancing risk & reward – We push boundaries in controlled ways—small tests before big leaps. 3. Operational efficiency – Streamlined processes give us room to innovate without disrupting what works. 4. Culture of adaptability – We stay agile, not reckless, making change an ongoing process, not a sudden shock. Stability fuels innovation—when the core is strong, we can push further.

Build a culture that looks for incremental innovation in day to day activities and make radical innovation a strategic priority. There are small wins to be had that are low risk and can be created during the normal course of business with little extra effort. I've seen plenty of efficiency gains when I've advocated for and recognised my teams continuous improvement actions. Your team needs to value innovation. Step changes in performance need focus and resources. I've seen business innovation take off when I've made it a key pillar of my strategy and carved out time specifically for my teams to be able to explore new opportunities. That deliberate, dedicated capacity can be the difference between ideas on a backlog and a game changer.

For a good balance, I always try to avoid AI where it feels redundant and obvious. We can't use Artificial Intelligence in excess, otherwise our brand loses its face.

To balance innovation and stability, I focus on strategic risk-taking, structured experimentation, and strong core operations. I ensure key business functions remain stable, allowing room for controlled innovation. I implement pilot programs to test new ideas on a small scale before full integration, minimizing risk. Engaging stakeholders and teams in iterative feedback loops ensures alignment with long-term goals. I also leverage data-driven insights to guide decisions, ensuring that innovation adds value without disrupting the foundation. By fostering a culture of agility and resilience, I push boundaries while maintaining operational integrity.

The short answer is: you need to BALANCE the two. Innovation and stability must work together. First, anchor your core operations—ensure your team, processes, and revenue streams remain strong. Then, create a controlled testing ground for new ideas, setting clear milestones to measure success. Finally, embrace calculated risks—push boundaries, but always with a strategy in place. Keep communication open with your team, ensuring they’re aligned with both the stable foundation and the vision for growth. Balance comes from disciplined execution and bold, smart decision-making.