What does it really take to break barriers, lead with integrity, and coach others to greatness? Just ask Roland Butcher – the first Black cricketer to play for England – whose story is packed with courage, resilience, and hard-earned wisdom.
In his new book Breaking Barriers: Barbados to England … And Back, Roland shares his incredible journey from a small village in Barbados to the world stage of international cricket. Along the way, he picked up powerful lessons on leadership, coaching, and personal growth – lessons that apply just as much in the workplace as they do on the pitch.
Here are five standout leadership lessons from Roland, which he shared with us on the Corey-osity Unleashed podcast.
1. Coaching isn’t telling – it’s guiding
When Roland transitioned from player to coach, he was struck by how rigid and one-size-fits-all coaching could be. Manuals dictated the ‘right’ technique, ignoring individuality. For Roland, this approach was limiting.
“I always believed there’s no one way. Coaching isn’t about forcing someone into a box, it’s about understanding the individual, letting them express themselves, and helping them grow from there.”
Leadership takeaway:
Effective coaching means asking, not just telling. It’s about creating space for others to think, learn, and develop their own confidence – not just follow instructions.
2. Timing is everything (especially with feedback)
When it comes to feedback, Roland is clear: don’t rush it – choose your moment wisely.
“Right after a poor performance is the worst time to hold a team meeting. Emotions are high, blame flies, and no one’s thinking clearly. Wait, let things settle, and then have the conversation.”
Whether it’s sport or business, the goal of feedback is growth – and that only happens when the person is in the right headspace to hear it. If they’re angry, embarrassed, or still processing the situation, your message won’t land, no matter how well-intentioned it is.
Leadership takeaway:
Feedback isn’t just about what you say or how you say it – it’s also about when. Deliver it at a time when the person is calm, open, and ready to listen. That’s when it sticks, leads to insight, and creates real change.
3. Adapt or get left behind
From five-day test matches to three-hour T20 games, cricket has evolved – and Roland has evolved with it. Some traditionalists resist change. Not Roland Butcher.
“You can’t coach one side of the game anymore. You’ve got to understand how the game is shifting, and how your players are shifting too.”
Leadership takeaway:
Work, like sport, is always changing. Great leaders don’t cling to the past – they adapt, evolve, and help others do the same.
4. Empowerment creates winning teams
Roland credits his former captain Mike Brearley for a transformative leadership philosophy: treat everyone like a captain.
“He empowered young players to think for themselves, make decisions, and contribute to the team’s direction. You didn’t just follow orders, you owned your role.”
Leadership takeaway:
When people feel trusted and empowered, they take greater responsibility and initiative. Don’t just lead from the front – lead by lifting others.
5. Motivation means accepting the ebbs and flows
Perhaps one of Roland’s most powerful reflections came through a phrase passed down from his childhood in Barbados:
“Every day is a fishing day, but not every day is a catching day.”
We all have off days, and great leaders understand that. They don’t expect perfection. They support through the lows and celebrate the highs.
Leadership takeaway:
Motivation isn’t about pushing people to be perfect. It’s about helping them stay steady through the ups and downs – and knowing when to offer support, not pressure.
Roland Butcher’s journey is a powerful reminder that leadership is never one-size-fits-all. It’s about recognising individuality, creating space for growth, and embracing change with courage and humility. From empowering others to lead, to knowing when to step back, to delivering feedback that truly lands – Roland’s wisdom speaks to every leader who wants to make an impact. In the end, great leadership isn’t just about results, it’s about the people you help become stronger, braver, and better along the way.
