About the Book
A collection of tools and ideas on maintaining productivity, team development, and commitment to one's values in an environment where chaos is becoming the new norm.
When it comes to war, the first thoughts are military actions and their strategy. But the war is also a test for the economy, state bodies, culture, and social relations. And this book is exactly about that. The book is a collection of tools and ideas by Kostiantyn Koshelenko, currently Deputy Minister of Social Policy of Ukraine, on maintaining productivity, team development, and commitment to one's values in an environment where chaos is becoming the new norm. In addition to the author, 40 Ukrainian and international managers from 12 countries share their experiences and lessons learned during crises.
"In his book Kostiantyn Koshelenko draws on his experience leading Ukraine's digital transformation during wartime to provide invaluable leadership insights. Through firsthand stories and expert perspectives, he explores how managers can motivate teams, foster innovation, and plan under conditions of extreme uncertainty. Koshelenko drives home the importance of adaptability, open communication, delegating responsibility, and self-care. While steeped in the urgent demands of wartime management, his lessons on everything from mitigating risk to optimizing remote work resonate for leaders navigating crises of any kind. His book is both a gripping account of Ukraine's tireless nation-building effort as well as a guide to remaining steadfast and productive even when the ground shakes beneath you." - Ian Bremmer, American political scientist and president of Eurasia Group
"This remarkable book starts from a unique point - managing an organization amid war. But it quickly moves to challenges facing every leader in the digital age: Leading agile teams. Allocating resources. Managing risk. Scaling systems of people and technology. This is not a story of generals, but of Ukrainian entrepreneurs, executives, and government officials. Koshelenko draws on his own experience leading the digital transformation of his country's social services. And he balances it with insights from dozens of partners. He shares profound lessons in flexibility, communication, and resilience amidst chaos and adversity. This book offers essential advice for anyone leading in the tumult of the digital era." - David Rogers, the world's leading expert on digital transformation, author of The Digital Transformation Roadmap
"In this book on corporate leadership during the tumultuous times of the Russian war against Ukraine, the author navigates the treacherous waters of extreme adversity. The book sheds light on the challenges businesses face, putting their resilience to the ultimate test. Amidst the chaos, readers will find important lessons as the book encapsulates crucial insights gleaned from the crucible of wartime entrepreneurship. An insightful source for those seeking wisdom in steering organizations through unprecedented trials." - Kurt Matzler, author of High Performance Mindset, co-author of Open Strategy, Professor of Strategic Management, solo finisher Race Across America and Northcape 4000
"Kostiantyn Koshelenko's new book is a fascinating read about leadership and management in a period of extreme challenge - Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine is defending itself while also making changes in its society as it takes hard but necessary steps to ensure its future in the West. This book captures the thinking and strategies of one of Ukraine's senior leaders." - Daniel F. Runde, author of The American Imperative: Reclaiming Global Leadership through Soft Power, and Senior Vice President, Center for Strategic and International Studies
"Since February 24, 2022, Ukrainians, and leaders of Ukrainian organizations and networks, have exhibited remarkable resilience, surpassing the expectations of governments worldwide. This book delves into the organized and sometimes de-centralized efforts contributing to their large-scale success against Russia, the largest military and propaganda machine in the eastern hemisphere. It highlights the secrets of effective counteraction, making it a vital resource not just for documenting experiences, but also for enhancing the resilience of other democracies facing similar challenges. The significance of this book extends beyond mere survival; it aims to scale up results, empowering Ukraine, and the principles of freedom and democracy globally, to win. Its goal is to ensure future generations can study history without the shadow of World War III looming over them, offering practical tools for such a victory. These tools, encapsulated within the pages of Management in Times of War, are instrumental for shaping a future where humanity can thrive." - Oleksandr Novikov, Head of the Ukrainian National Agency for the Prevention of Corruption
"A good and interesting read. Its strength is the perspective it adds which is embodied and summarized in the title. I enjoyed it, and it chimes and reinforces much of what I teach at Open University Business School, what I experienced in managing a large team (although not at war), and also what I was taught when doing my MBA. It adds value as leadership has a huge contextual aspect and it requires in-depth discussion in times of conflict and war - this book adds to the body of knowledge and is an excellent contribution." - Antonio Garcia, PhD, MBA, Senior Manager in the Scottish Government Civil Service, Open University Tutor, former Army Officer
"It has been my privilege to preview this book and help out with proofreading. There are lessons here that apply to people management during any stressful time, including war. Corporate layoffs, natural disasters, pandemics, and political turmoil all have analogues in this book, though to an even more extreme degree than most of us in the West have ad to face in recent memory. Kostiantyn Koshelenko and a panel of contributors pass on their insights about how they have kept their teams motivated, innovating and producing quality work under the harshest conditions imaginable." - Shane O'Neal, IT professional, former medical professional, and amateur writer who lives in San Antonio, Texas.