Voyagers and Architects: A Tale of Two CEOs and the Power of Complementary Leadership

two business people walking down the steps

In the world of business, there are as many leadership styles as there are leaders. But when we zoom in, two distinct types of CEOs often rise to the surface: the "Voyagers" and the "Architects". Each of these leaders has a unique approach to steering their organization, embodying distinct strengths and facing individual challenges. Understanding these differences, we at Solomon Advising are committed to delivering tailored, effective support to these divergent leaders, enhancing their unique strengths and addressing their specific challenges.

Voyagers are the embodiment of the pioneering spirit, always looking towards the horizon, their gaze set firmly on the opportunities that lie ahead. These leaders are infused with a relentless energy that drives them to continually push the boundaries of what's possible. They are the opportunists, the risk-takers, the ones with a knack for spotting the 'next big thing' before others even know it exists. Their personal success and the performance of their organization are intricately entwined; one fuels the other in an ambitious and relentless pursuit of growth.

However, being a Voyager is not without its challenges. Their persistent push for progress and focus on the future can sometimes cause them to overlook the importance of present details, leading to decision-making that may prioritize speed over sustainability. The constant pursuit of the new and exciting might lead to a culture that lacks stability and consolidation, where teams may feel strained by the relentless pace of change.

On the other hand, we have the Architects. These are the leaders who build their vision brick by brick, with calculated decisions and methodical strategies. They are the masters of optimization, continually refining and improving their internal structures to ensure robust, steady growth. These CEOs are the silent conductors, leading more from the background and putting service at the forefront of their leadership style.

Yet, the Architect's approach has its own set of pitfalls. Their tendency towards risk aversion might prevent them from seizing opportunities that require a leap of faith. They might be slower to react to sudden market shifts, and their quiet, behind-the-scenes leadership style might not inspire and energize their teams as much as a more charismatic approach could.

This is where Solomon Advising shines. For Voyager CEOs, we provide a compass and map for their journey, helping them to ground their visionary ideas in practical realities. We aid in developing detailed, step-by-step plans to transform their ambitious dreams into achievable, sustainable goals. We provide strategic tools and guidance to balance the scales between risk and reward, helping to create a culture of sustainable growth that harnesses their zest for innovation without burning out their teams.

For Architect CEOs, we offer the perspective of an external observer, identifying opportunities for innovation within their carefully designed frameworks and nudging them towards calculated risk-taking. We provide insights into inspirational leadership strategies, helping them motivate their teams without sacrificing their core principles of service and consistency.

At Solomon Advising, we respect and admire both types of CEOs. We believe that both Voyagers and Architects have what it takes to steer their organizations towards success. Our role is not to change their style, but to complement it, to be the sounding board, the reality-check, and the supportive partner, helping them to draw the best out of their unique leadership styles and steer their organizations towards sustained success.


Solomon Advising is a marketing & branding agency focused on helping professional services firms retain their relevance and ensure sustainability by consistently promoting a credible brand. Contact us today to see how we can help improve your brand’s health.

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