Let Go & Lead With Maril Macdonald

Tim Gabel, President and CEO of RTI International, joins Maril to reflect on leading a mission-driven scientific organization through growth, disruption and profound change. Drawing on more than four decades at RTI, Tim shares how purpose, transparency and disciplined decision-making shape his approach to leadership.Tim explores the responsibility of moving from peer to CEO, the balance between science and art in leadership, and what it takes to guide people through uncertainty while staying grounded in values.Key Takeaways:00:00 Introduction.04:41 A leadership journey shaped by mentorship, curiosity and long-term commitment.07:21 Why moving from peer to CEO changes everything.10:41 Blending scientific rigor with the human side of leadership.13:49 Applying the Stockdale Paradox to lead with realism and hope.16:58 Leading transparently through major federal funding cuts.19:24 Turning crisis into an opportunity to redesign the organization.23:26 Using purpose and a North Star goal to sustain morale and momentum