What Happens when Purpose Meets Ambition: Lessons in Leadership with British Cycling CEO Jon Dutton

Business of Endurance

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What does it take to lead one of Britain’s most iconic sports into a new era?

In this episode, we sit down with Jon Dutton OBE, CEO of British Cycling, to unpack how purpose-driven leadership, bold decision-making, and emotional intelligence are shaping the future of sport.

From orchestrating the ground-breaking Rugby League World Cup to overseeing the path to Paris 2024 and beyond, Jon shares the untold stories behind elite performance, everyday cycling, and the entrepreneurial mindset needed to drive systemic change.

We talk values, resilience, media disruption, and why mindset - not just physiology - is becoming the biggest predictor of success in sport and business.

Whether you're an athlete, a business owner, or simply looking for leadership inspiration, this conversation is a masterclass in navigating challenge with clarity, ambition, and integrity. If you’re ready to think bigger and lead better-this episode is for you.
Highlights:

Leading with Purpose: How purpose-driven leadership is reshaping British Cycling and driving systemic change.
Resilience Through Adversity: Navigating setbacks, including the postponement of the Rugby League World Cup, with determination and values.
The Role of Values in Decision-Making: How making difficult decisions in sport, such as postponing an event, is grounded in core values like authenticity and inclusivity.
Building a Positive Culture: How Jon is fostering a culture of trust, loyalty, and collective responsibility within British Cycling.
Social Impact Through Sport: Leveraging cycling as a tool for social mobility, community cohesion, and tackling inactivity.
Creating Opportunities for All: British Cycling’s commitment to engaging the entire population, from young children to seniors, in cycling.
The Growth Mindset: How a growth mindset is key to success in both sport and business, and how British Cycling encourages it within its athletes and team.
Entrepreneurial Leadership: How Jon’s entrepreneurial approach is helping British Cycling thrive in a constantly evolving environment.
The Power of the Grand Depart: The monumental impact of bringing the Tour de France to the UK in 2027 and its potential for inspiring the nation.
Navigating Change in Media: How the shift in TV coverage and media rights is influencing the future of cycling and British Cycling’s role in that transformation.

Links:

Connect with Jon through LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-dutton72/

Visit the British Cycling Website: https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/

Please Subscribe to Business of Endurance on Apple Podcasts, leave a comment, and give us a 5-Star review.

This episode was sponsored by The Trusted Team and 4th Discipline

Chapters

1. From Rugby Dreams to Sports Leadership (00:00:00)

2. The Rugby League World Cup Challenge (00:10:15)

3. Transforming British Cycling's Culture (00:19:35)

4. The Power of Social Impact Programs (00:30:10)

5. Values-Driven Decision Making (00:39:25)

6. Olympic Performance and Resilience (00:49:00)

7. Tour de France UK and Future Vision (00:57:15)

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