Service Design YAP From crying in the shower to creative leadership, with Rama Gheerawo.
Nov 19, 2025
44:33
Does the 21st century need a new leadership paradigm? Rama Geheerawo thinks that we do. Through his work with global large enterprises, he's found that bringing a design sensibility to the task of redefining better formats for leadership has yielded "Ah Ha" moments as well as real commercial impact.
About Rama:
Prof. Rama Gheerawo is a global authority on inclusive design and creative leadership, working at the intersection of innovation, business, and human-centred design.
He is the author of Creative Leadership: How to Design the 21st Century Organisation, a bold book for creatives that puts empathy, clarity and creativity at the core of leadership. Published internationally in paperback, audiobook and ebook, it has resonated with leaders across 40+ countries and is rapidly redefining leadership for a new era. Rama is the Founder of INSTILL and President of EIDD – Design for All Europe. Formerly Director of the Helen Hamlyn Centre for Design at the Royal College of Art, he has led over 100 collaborations with global organisations including Samsung, Toyota, Tata Consultancy Services and Panasonic, turning inclusive design into business advantage and social impact. His Creative Leadership model has trained thousands, including 850+ senior civil servants, and is helping shape leadership cultures worldwide. Named a Creative Leader alongside Paul Smith and Björk, and awarded the Design Week Hall of Fame in 2019, Rama brings unmatched energy, empathy and vision to every stage.
A highly sought-after keynote speaker and advisor, he challenges assumptions, unlocks potential, and empowers individuals and organisations to lead with humanity. Rama sits on numerous boards and advisory committees including The Valuable 500, D&AD Awards, Dezeen Awards and the Global Disability Innovation Hub. He is also a Visiting Professor in Asia and Europe.
Service Design YAP is developed and produced by the Service Design Network UK Chapter.
Its aim is to engage and connect the wider Service Design community.
- Episode Host: Stephen Wood
- Production Assistance: Jean Watanya