Why Every High-Performing Leader Needs a Pacer
MIT Sloan Management Review, Wednesday, October 14th, 2026
A designated pacer helps leaders match their operating speed to the moment; the authors explain warning signs and how to find one.
Borrowing from elite runners who use pacers, the authors argue that moving at the right speed is as important for leaders as choosing the right direction.
Survey research suggests a designated pacer, someone who helps match operational speed to the challenge, plays an essential role for leaders and teams.
The pacer slows a leader who is going too fast, speeds up one who is too slow and reduces the mental load of monitoring pace.
The article describes warning signs that a leader needs a pacer and how to find and use one.