Ken Banta Reflects on the Quiet Foundations of Trusted Leadership

Ken Banta, Founder and CEO of The Vanguard Network, has published a new Substack article titled “The Invisible Work of High-Performance Leadership,” released November 27, 2025.

In this reflective piece, Banta explores the often-unseen behaviors that define truly effective leaders. Moving beyond bold strategies and headline moments, the article focuses on the small, deliberate acts of judgment, empathy, and trust that earn leaders credibility when it matters most.

Drawing on conversations from Vanguard Network programs with experienced and aspiring General Counsels, Banta highlights what it really means to be a trusted advisor to a CEO. The article underscores that influence is built quietly over time through listening, emotional intelligence, and the ability to deliver hard truths with care.

“The Invisible Work of High-Performance Leadership” offers a timely reminder that leadership is lived in the details. Trust, presence, and integrity are not dramatic gestures, but they are the foundation of sustained high performance in moments of uncertainty.

To read the full article on Substack, click here.

About The Vanguard Network

The Vanguard Network is a leadership community and advisory platform that helps senior executives sharpen foresight, strengthen performance, and achieve impact. Through forums, exchanges, and programs, Vanguard convenes leaders across industries to share challenges and solutions in a confidential, collaborative setting.