Brett Macfarlane

Brett Macfarlane is a leadership development specialist working through a systems psychodynamic lens to help innovation leaders and teams understand the hidden emotional and political dynamics that shape execution. He advises Fortune 500 companies, central banks, and leading consultancies on the human side of innovation—reducing resistance, strengthening adaptability, and building high-performing innovation cultures. His research produced the Innovation Leadership Map and Emotional Gearing, tools designed to deepen emotional insight and improve decision-making.

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Before establishing his leadership development practice, Brett led innovation and transformation initiatives at American Express, Apple, Barclays, Bayer, CPP Investments, Google, Jaguar Land Rover, Partners Group, Visa, and Unilever. He also helped launch Jony Ive’s favourite app and Game of the Year, Monument Valley. With more than 200 awards and patents, and a Master’s in Organizational Psychology from INSEAD with distinction, he combines frontline pragmatism with science-led behavioural methods. A fifth-generation British Columbian, Brett returned to Vancouver in 2023, combining global experience with local roots and a strong commitment to community.