From Deloitte to the Deep Blue

Most leaders think innovation happens in labs or strategy sessions. But in this episode of The No Limit Leadership podcast, Kendra MacDonald shows us what it looks like to lead transformation at scale.

Kendra went from serving as a Deloitte partner overseeing 250,000 people to becoming the CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, where she is tasked with coordinating Canada’s public and private sector efforts to unlock the $1 trillion ocean economy. Along the way, she has been honored with the King Charles Award and inducted into the Top 50 CEOs Hall of Fame.

Her story is about more than oceans or technology. It is about the kind of leadership required to navigate complexity, drive innovation, and stay grounded in what matters most.

Lead Yourself: Focus on the Problem, Not the Solution

When we get caught up in the latest tool, technology, or quick fix, we lose sight of what actually matters; solving the right problem. Kendra highlighted that companies often fall in love with their technology, but without a clear connection to the real problem, innovation fails.

As a leader, the key mindset shift is this: solutions change, problems endure. AI, blockchain, robotics, all of these will evolve, but if you stay grounded in the problem you are trying to solve, you will adapt and stay relevant.

Action Steps

1. Start every project by clearly defining the problem, not the tool.

2. Ask yourself: “If my current solution disappeared tomorrow, what problem would still exist?”

3. Look at time scale of the solution. How can you create something that is able to be upgraded and malleable as new technology emerges?

Lead Others: Navigate Friction Points with Clarity and Alignment

In the military, I learned to identify Friction Points. These are the moments where teams, departments, or organizations must come together outside of their normal operations (read business function). These are the places where leadership is most needed.

Kendra shared how, in the Ocean Supercluster, misalignment often emerges between stakeholders with different priorities. Her insight? Do not stop at roles and responsibilities. Go past what each party says they want to uncover their ultimate goals and motivations. That is where alignment is found or rebuilt.

Action Steps

1. Identify the friction points in your organization where two or more groups must collaborate under pressure.

2. Before jumping to solutions, clarify each party’s deeper motivation (the “why” behind their ask).

3. Reset alignment by highlighting shared goals, not just negotiated compromises.

Becoming a No Limit Leader

Kendra’s leadership in one of the world’s most complex environments reminds us: whether you are solving problems on the ocean floor or in your office, the principles are the same. Stay problem focused, lead with curiosity, and step into friction points with clarity and humility. That is how leaders unlock innovation and unlock themselves.

Challenge Limits. Develop Leaders. Fuel Greatness
— Sean

PS: I help leaders unlock new levels of performance for themselves and teams. Ready to see what you’re truly capable of? Let’s Talk!

E-mail me directly at [email protected] with the subject line: I’m Ready!

Prefer the Podcast?

Catch the full conversation with Kendra MacDonald here:
🎧 Listen to the Episode