Leadership for an Evolving Economy: Lessons from Richard Maize.
In a world where technologies shift rapidly, real estate markets turn on a dime, and investor expectations continue to evolve, leadership is no longer just about capital—it’s about vision, adaptability and purpose. Richard Maize’s journey—from real-estate investor and mortgage-banking founder to active mentor and philanthropist—offers a blueprint for how to lead in today’s economy.
1. Build the foundation: focus on core competency
Early in his career, Richard Maize established a portfolio of rental units and founded a major mortgage banking firm—endeavours that grounded his business in tangible assets and operational discipline. maizefoundation.org+1 The lesson: before chasing the latest hype, build something you understand deeply. Whether that’s property, capital markets or service businesses—master the fundamentals first.
2. Embrace change rather than resist it
Markets shift, regulations evolve, technology disrupts. A true leader doesn’t freeze; they adapt. Having founded and sold a mortgage-banking firm, and then diversified across real-estate, investments and philanthropy, Maize demonstrates the value of reinvention. maizefoundation.org+1 For every business leader: what is your next horizon? What are you learning now to prepare for it?
3. Mentorship multiplies impact
Richard Maize doesn’t just create wealth—he shares knowledge. His mentoring of emerging entrepreneurs shows that leadership today is as much about lifting others as it is about personal success. Richard Maize When you lead, consider: how can you accelerate someone else’s growth? How are you building the next generation of leaders?
4. Purpose drives long-term resilience
Leading solely for profit is a short-sighted strategy. Maize’s commitment to community — via the Rochelle & Richard Maize Foundation and partnerships in youth, education, arts and welfare — underpins something deeper than business alone. maizefoundation.org In uncertain times, companies and leaders anchored with purpose outlast those anchored only in numbers.
5. Stay humble, stay curious
Despite high achievement, Maize emphasises dignity, respect and continuous learning. “We are all human… we make mistakes,” he’s noted, framing leadership as both grounded and evolving. Richard Maize The takeaway: regardless of position or success, engage with curiosity. Ask questions, listen, iterate.
What this means for today’s leader
Invest in what you understand — before scaling or diversifying.
Build for change — create systems, teams and culture that can pivot.
Amplify success through others — mentorship isn’t an add-on; it’s a multiplier.
Root your enterprise in meaning — profit follows purpose.
Lead with humility and curiosity — grand visions still benefit from open ears.
In the current economy — saturated with noise, innovation and risk alike — the greatest leaders aren’t simply the biggest or loudest. They are those who blend operational prowess with human insight. Richard Maize’s story serves as an example of how business leadership can be refined, resilient and deeply relevant.
