Take on Board Sara Harrup explains what boards need to know about CEOs and executives who are neurodivergent
Jan 21, 2025
Sara Harrup, a dynamic coach and Deputy Chair of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission, shares her insights on neurodiversity in leadership. She discusses the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent CEOs, emphasizing the need for boards to cultivate understanding and emotional intelligence. Harrup highlights her personal journey with ADHD and autistic traits, advocating for inclusive environments that leverage diverse cognitive strengths. The conversation reveals the vital role chairpersons play in fostering these relationships for effective governance.
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Young Sara's Story
- Sara Harrup was a quiet, situationally mute child who excelled academically and in the arts.
- She developed coping mechanisms for her anxiety and pursued a diverse career driven by her interests and care for others.
Understanding Neurodiversity
- Neurodiversity is a broad spectrum of how brains function, similar to the natural variations in human hands. Thinking about neurodiversity normalizes these differences rather than creating a 'typical' versus 'other' dichotomy.
Focus on the individual
- Focus on understanding individual needs and communication styles, rather than diagnoses.
- Have open conversations with people about their challenges and strengths.