The Ethical Leadership Framework
- Lisa Askins
- May 20
- 2 min read
Updated: May 21
Leading with clarity, care, and confidence.
Uncertainty isn’t just a moment; it’s the backdrop for how many of us are living and leading right now. Whether it’s economic shifts, the rise of AI, cultural change, or widespread distrust in institutions, the ground keeps moving.
I’ve been in conversations lately with leaders who feel solid on the outside but uncertain underneath. If that’s you, you’re not alone.
In times like these, people don’t look for perfection. They look for stability. Leadership rooted in integrity and clarity offers a strong foundation.
The Ethical Leadership Framework offers a practical, human-centered guide for navigating decisions, relationships, and power with care. It’s designed to help leaders and teams stay grounded in what matters, especially when things feel unclear or in motion.
Seven Core Principles of Ethical Leadership
Adaptable to your culture, context, and evolving needs.
1. Integrity and Accountability
Leaders model the values they talk about and take ownership when they miss the mark.
Structures for transparency and healthy oversight are built into how the team works.
Ethical behavior is woven into daily actions, not just written policies.
2. Encouragement of Critical Thinking
People can ask questions, share dissenting views, and raise concerns.
Diverse perspectives are welcomed. Decisions are made with thoughtfulness and humility.
3. Respect for Individual Autonomy
Team members are trusted to make thoughtful choices about their work and life.
Leadership supports rather than controls. Autonomy is honored, not managed away.
4. Transparency and Responsible Use of Power
Decisions are made in the open, not behind closed doors.
Power is used to protect and empower, not to manipulate or withhold.
Leaders are honest about what’s happening and why.
5. Inclusive, Human-Centered Culture
Respect is practiced across identity, background, and role.
There’s no “inner circle” culture. Growth is shared.
Everyone has something to contribute and is treated that way.
6. Accountability to External Standards
Leaders are open to feedback, regulation, and external insight.
The organization’s integrity holds up not just internally but in the community.
7. Emotional and Ethical Maturity
Shame and fear aren’t leadership tools.
Boundaries are honored. Well-being is respected.
Influence is used thoughtfully, never confused with control.
How to Use This Framework
Executive teams can use it to reflect on leadership culture, spot blind spots, and align around shared values.
HR and people leaders can integrate it into hiring, feedback, and leadership development.
Teams can use it to name what good leadership looks like and call each other toward it.
The Payoff
Ethical leadership doesn’t just reduce risk; it builds trust. It attracts the right people, supports long-term retention, and creates cultures where creativity, care, and agility can thrive.
Where do you feel aligned, and where do you feel disconnected?
Let’s talk. If you're navigating uncertainty, leading through transition, or reimagining what leadership looks like today, I'd love to support that process.
I work with purpose-driven leaders and teams ready to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and connection.