The Heels Forward Podcast powered by Montea - Episode 10 with Petra De Sutter
Petra De Sutter – from Deputy Prime Minister to Rector of Ghent University: on leadership, well-being, and equity
In the tenth episode of The Heels Forward Podcast – powered by Montea – Francesca Vanthielen speaks with Petra De Sutter: Rector of Ghent University, former Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Civil Service and Public Enterprises.
Petra shares her transition from national politics to the cockpit of a university, and why leadership, in her view, is about setting direction, bringing people together, and creating space for enthusiasm. She discusses today’s pressing challenges such as burnout and inappropriate behavior in higher education, and explains why safety and well-being are, for her, the foundation of excellence.
She also reflects on the difference between equality and equity, why representation at the top changes decisions, and how science and solidarity remain her anchors in public debate. Drawing on her medical background, she raises the ethical frontiers of reproductive medicine and calls for a broad societal conversation.
Her favorite quote? “You can’t control the waves, but you can learn to surf.” A life philosophy that helped her build resilience in politics, and that she carries into her new role as Rector.
An episode about principled leadership, the courage to address sensitive issues, and the strength of resilience in times of change.
Read more about the episode: https://montea.com/en/blog/the-heels-...