It is not the manager's job to prevent risks. It is the manager's job to make it safe to take them

It is not the manager's job to prevent risks. It is the manager's job to make it safe to take them

In the world of business and leadership, the quote “It is not the manager's job to prevent risks. It is the manager's job to make it safe to take them” holds a significant amount of truth. This concept is especially exemplified in the career of Ed Catmull, the co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios and former president of Walt Disney Animation Studios.

Throughout his career, Catmull has been a strong advocate for fostering a culture of creativity and innovation within his organizations. He understands that in order for a company to thrive and stay ahead of the competition, risks must be taken. However, he also recognizes that taking risks can be intimidating and even frightening for employees. This is where the role of the manager comes into play.

Instead of discouraging employees from taking risks or playing it safe, a good manager should create an environment where employees feel safe to take risks and explore new ideas. This involves providing support, encouragement, and resources to help employees navigate the uncertainties that come with taking risks. Catmull believes that by creating a safe space for employees to take risks, they will be more likely to push boundaries, think outside the box, and ultimately drive innovation within the organization.

One of the ways Catmull has implemented this philosophy is through Pixar’s “Braintrust” meetings. These meetings bring together key creative minds within the company to provide feedback and constructive criticism on projects in development. By creating a collaborative and open environment where ideas can be freely shared and discussed, Catmull has fostered a culture of trust and creativity within Pixar.