Episode 78

Written By zoe amar

Standing True: Leadership in the Face of Systemic Resistance

We chat to Sal Naseem, best selling author of “True North: A Story of Racism, Resilience and Resisting Systems of Denial”


Trigger warning: This episode contains descriptions of racial abuse, workplace bullying and discrimination which some listeners may find distressing

In this powerful episode, Sal Naseem, former Regional Director for London at the Independent Office for Police Conduct, shares his extraordinary journey of leading change within policing oversight during some of the most challenging cases in recent history, from Wayne Cousins to the Sarah Everard case. He discusses how maintaining your values and moral compass is crucial when pushing for systemic change, even in the face of intense resistance.

In his role as Regional Director for London at the Independent Office for Police Conduct, Sal spent nearly a decade overseeing some of the most high profile police misconduct cases. Recognised as one of the top 10 voices on anti-discrimination on LinkedIn and named in the Diversity Power List 2023-24, Sal has contributed to several BBC documentaries and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.

Through his deeply personal account, Sal shares vital lessons about leading change in complex systems:

  • Why finding common purpose with unlikely allies is crucial for driving meaningful change

  • The importance of approaching leadership with humility and leaving ego at the door

  • How to maintain your values when faced with systemic resistance

  • The true cost of driving change and the importance of self-care

  • Why exceptional leadership is rooted in consistent character both inside and outside work

One of Sal's most powerful insights is that "to lead in a values-led way and to lead in a really true sense is hard because you have to make hard choices." His experiences demonstrate how maintaining your moral compass can guide you through the most challenging leadership decisions.

Sal's new book, "True North: A Story of Racism, Resilience and Resisting Systems of Denial" is available on Amazon and in all good bookshops. It offers a raw and honest account of his experiences fighting for change within the system while facing institutional resistance and personal challenges.

Photo credit:Lensi Photography

Buy Sal’s best selling book, “True North: A Story of Racism, Resilience and Resisting Systems of Denial" here

Subscribe to Sal’s newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/finding-your-true-north-7201671449361756160/

And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!

Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.

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Episode 77