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I’m Elliot Harper, a 42-year-old leader with over two decades of experience in the UK public sector. Since 2017, I’ve held senior leadership roles, guiding teams and managing complex responsibilities.
In 2023, I found myself at a turning point, receiving feedback that led me to reflect deeply on my leadership style and self-identity. The feedback I received highlighted challenges such as a perceived lack of empathy and authenticity, making me question everything I thought I knew about leadership.
In the midst of this period of reflection, a colleague suggested that I consider the possibility that I might be autistic. After months of patient waiting and personal introspection, I was formally diagnosed with autism in August 2024.
This discovery has sparked a journey of understanding how autism shapes me both personally and professionally, as I work to rebuild my confidence and navigate leadership with a new perspective.
The Purpose Behind The Autistic Boss
With a renewed understanding of myself, I created this blog to share my story and connect with others who may be on similar journeys.
Whether you’re an autistic leader, aspiring to leadership, managing autistic staff, or simply curious about autism and leadership, my hope is to offer insights, teach life skills to aspiring autistic leaders, and reflect on my experiences.
This platform will serve as a space where we can support each other, learn together, and redefine what it means to lead with autism.
The Vision: Building a Community of Neurodiverse Leaders
My vision for The Autistic Boss is to create a supportive, empowering space for neurodivergent individuals, particularly those in leadership roles.
I aim for this blog to be a resource for autistic leaders, aspiring leaders, managers, and anyone interested in understanding the unique strengths that come with autism.
By sharing personal stories, practical advice, and insights, I hope to help readers embrace their neurodiversity as a valuable asset in the workplace.
Ultimately, I want The Autistic Boss to become a platform that fosters a community of like-minded individuals—where we can learn from each other’s experiences, celebrate successes, and advocate for greater inclusivity in leadership.
I hope to inspire autistic individuals to pursue leadership roles, help others better understand themselves and those around them, challenge stereotypes, and encourage workplaces to adopt more inclusive practices.
Through honest conversation and shared knowledge, I want to help others discover and embrace their potential as leaders, regardless of societal labels.
Join the Conversation: Let’s Redefine Leadership Together
If you’re an autistic leader, aspiring to leadership, or simply interested in the intersection of autism and leadership, The Autistic Boss is here to support you on your journey.
Join our community by subscribing to the blog, where you’ll gain insights, strategies, and stories to help you embrace your unique strengths.
Don’t navigate this journey alone—connect with others who understand the challenges and triumphs of leading with autism.
Subscribe today, share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s start a conversation about transforming the way we see leadership and neurodiversity!
