How Leaders Lead with David Novak

#235: Dave McKay, President and CEO of RBC – Go public with your big goals

Apr 17, 2025

Dave McKay, President and CEO of RBC, brings over 30 years of banking experience and shares his insights on breaking career ceilings through bold goal-setting. He believes that publicly declaring ambitious goals can rally teams and attract talent. McKay discusses the synergy between business and creativity, exemplified by RBC's partnership with Taylor Swift during her tour. He emphasizes the importance of integrity and continuous learning, highlighting how an ambition-driven culture fosters innovation while maintaining ethical practices in leadership.

59:36

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Episode guests

Dave McKay

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Quick takeaways

Publicly declaring big goals enhances leadership effectiveness and aligns organizations towards a common vision, fostering team momentum and commitment.

Collaborating with cultural figures, like sponsoring Taylor Swift's tour, offers strategic brand expansion opportunities that drive significant customer engagement.

Consistent evaluation and adaptation of business strategies are vital for sustained growth, balancing immediate tactics with long-term vision.

Deep dives

The Importance of Going Public with Goals

Declaring bold goals publicly can significantly enhance a leader's effectiveness and organizational alignment. When leaders share their visions openly, they foster momentum and excitement within their teams. This approach not only attracts top performers but also creates a commitment to achieving stated objectives, making it harder to backtrack or abandon those goals. Ultimately, taking this public stance transforms the leader's career trajectory and strengthens the organizational culture.

Intro

2min

The Intersection of Business and Music: A Strategic Partnership

2min

Strategic Sponsorships and Corporate Growth

6min

Building Bridges: The Canadian-American Business Landscape

11min

Embracing Continuous Learning and Ambition in Leadership

20min

Embracing Bold Aspirations for Competitive Growth

3min

Balancing Competition and Integrity in Leadership

16min

Feel like you’ve hit a ceiling in your career? Your boldest ideas might be the thing that breaks through—but only if you say them out loud.

In this episode, Dave McKay, President and CEO of RBC, shares why going public with big goals isn’t just bold. It’s strategic.

Learn how clarity and ambition can rally your team, attract top talent, and accelerate your growth.

Oh and yes, there’s a Taylor Swift tie-in, too.

One strategy that can radically change your career trajectory
Why hiring people with personal ambition isn’t enough (and what to look for instead)
The mentality you need to lead a market
How to accomplish big goals without jeopardizing integrity

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