Ralph Yirikian Discusses the Challenges of Modern Leadership with Leadership School Participants

Ucom General Director Ralph Yirikian met with participants of the Leadership School’s 2026–2027 academic year and delivered a lecture titled “Leadership: Core Principles.”

During the lecture, Ralph Yirikian spoke about the evolving role of leaders, decision-making in uncertain environments, building trust within teams, and the importance of bringing people together around a shared purpose. He also addressed how digital technologies and artificial intelligence are transforming management approaches and creating new expectations for today’s leaders.

“Today, leadership requires much more than simply managing processes. Leaders need to recognize change as it is still taking shape, be willing to reconsider established approaches, and at the same time create an environment where people are ready to take initiative and assume responsibility,” said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

Ralph Yirikian shared his management experience and insights with the participants, emphasizing that while technological development is changing tools and working processes, people, responsibility and trust remain at the heart of leadership. According to him, in times of change, it is particularly important not only to make the right decisions, but also to help the team understand the purpose behind those decisions and each person’s role in achieving a common goal.

The discussion also covered real-life business situations and the choices leaders face in management — between long-term goals and short-term results, rapid decision-making and careful risk assessment, as well as technological efficiency and the human factor.

“At the Leadership School, we value meetings that allow participants to experience leadership not only through theory, but also through real-life practice. The meeting with Ralph Yirikian was one such opportunity. His experience, mindset and approach to modern management offered important insights for the next generation of leaders. Today, as the environment is changing rapidly, it is particularly important to develop leaders who are willing to learn, take responsibility, accept change, and create positive impact for their teams and society,” said Samvel Movsisyan, Founder of the Leadership School.

Ucom values cooperation with educational and professional institutions and platforms and the opportunity to share its experience with future leaders. The Leadership School Foundation has been operating since 2009. Its mission is to support the development of the next generation of innovative business leaders in the South Caucasus and the Persian Gulf regions through cooperation with established local and international leaders, thinkers and organizations.