Leading with Humanity

“The critical success factor in any business at any time has been and will continue to be talent. It's always been a constant that to win in business you need to win the war for talent. That's how truly great companies win ― they attract, retain, and motivate great people. In this wonderfully expressive book Thomas Wellner establishes just how you go about doing that. It’s a practical guide to a great future. Read it, learn it, and employ its lessons.”
― Professor David R. Beatty Director, The David and Sharon Johnston Centre for Corporate Governance Innovation at the University of Toronto


“Thomas Wellner was a purpose-driven CEO long before it became trendy and mandatory for companies to have a purpose greater than making money. He was there not just at the creation of the biggest revolution in business in many generations; he was there before the creation. Leading With Humanity shows how being human and making profits aren’t mutually exclusive. If anything, they rely on each other. ”
― Bob Ramsay President, Ramsay Inc.


“In Leading with Humanity, Thomas Wellner describes why authentic, humanistic leadership is essential in crisis management. Genuine concern for clients, families, and team members is foundational to developing the best response to unexpected challenges. Wellner learned and exemplified this principle during the toughest times of the pandemic. Readers will benefit from his well-told stories and insights.”

― Robert Bell Professor Emeritus, University of Toronto; Former Deputy Minister, Ontario Ministry of Health


“As the economy of North America has been transformed from a goods-based one to a service-oriented economy, the management books that sit on our shelves touting ‘more widgets for less’ through autocratic management have become irrelevant. This fascinating book by one of Canada’s great business personalities tells how to apply humility, kindness, and creative adaptiveness to achieve greatness. It shows that even in a once in a century crisis, those principles work to bring success. I’m sure this will become required reading at business schools, but it should be a must-read for all young people facing a changing and challenging world.”

― Calvin R. Stiller Corporate Director; Professor Emeritus


“I found Wellner’s writing to be superb and the stories enlightening and valuable for anyone contributing to today’s workplace.”

― William J . Ringo , Jr. Mentor and Chair, numerous Biotech Boards


“Wellner is the type of leader who stops at nothing to protect and care for his people, his customers, and his community. Yet, he is humble enough to share some of the great life lessons he has learned during his successful career. Leading with Humanity is a must-read textbook for the modern leader and a reminder of the timeless importance of servant-based leadership. ”

― Ali Shivji Principal, Optima Living


“Tom’s concept of achieving the balance between human dividends and financial dividends for an organization is one that our new COVID - 19 world could hugely benefit from. This is a perfect read for students in our global business schools. Tom’s approach is refreshing and energizing. ”

― Beth Oakes Managing Partner and Executive Coach, The Oakes Group


“As CEO of Revera, Thomas Wellner was in the eye of the COVID - 19 storm. In the face of severe adversity, he managed Revera with great compassion. In Leading with Humanity, Tom provides the lessons he learned: how to skillfully manage a business while acting in a manner that is consistent with the core values of inclusivity, teamwork, care, grace, and sensitivity. Tom has a compelling perspective on balancing these potentially conflicting objectives. It should be required reading for entrepreneurs, business professionals, and business students.”

― Steve Mayer President, Greenhill Canada


“Today’s business leaders are faced with the challenge of leadership in a post-pandemic world. Thomas Wellner’s book is arriving at the perfect time. His years of experience at Revera will greatly benefit those in need of up-to-date advice.”

― Hazel McCallion Former Mayor, Mississauga


“What’s the secret to leading through turbulent times? Thomas Wellner’s Leading with Humanity serves as a blueprint for leaders looking to create high performance standards while engaging and inspiring their teams during periods of tremendous change.”

― Janet Ko Communications Executive


Thomas Wellner's book describes and exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit I was privileged to learn at Eli Lilly. Well into his career, Tom still listened, learned, and le d to the benefit of the residents, clients, partners, and investors.

― Richard Pilnik Eli LillyExecutive (retired)