The Narratives – Mohamed Miah

When the word “successful” comes up, there are countless names and faces that might flash through your mind. Entrepreneurs, athletes, visionaries, or perhaps even historical figures. But for me, the first name that stands out is Sir Alex Ferguson. Not just because I support Manchester United, but because what he accomplished both on and off the pitch is nothing short of extraordinary.

Think about it—here’s a man whose influence stretches far beyond the world of football. His reach is global, touching the lives of people from all walks of life. From sports stars to world leaders, to prestigious universities, everyone seems to want a piece of his wisdom. They want to hear his stories, learn from his leadership, and understand how he consistently delivered greatness. Yes, he’s won more trophies than most managers could dream of, but that’s just the surface.

For a Manchester United supporter like me, the years under his reign were a rollercoaster of emotions—highs, lows, dramatic comebacks, and unforgettable moments. There’s magic in looking back at that era, not just for the victories, but for the journey. Every win, every loss felt like part of a larger narrative, a testament to the man’s resilience, vision, and determination.

But what truly sets Sir Alex apart is the respect he commanded. His presence transcended the boundaries of football. Whether you were a prince or a pauper, a king or a commoner, he had time for you. It’s not just his accomplishments that make him a legend, but his humility, his grounded nature, and his genuine care for people. From managing a squad of diverse talents and egos to supporting charities and spending time with fans, he embodied leadership in every sense of the word.

For me, he is more than just a legendary manager. He’s a family man, a man of principle, and a mythical figure in some ways, already immortalised in the world of sporting history. His man-management skills will be studied forever, his philosophies echoed in leadership courses around the world. He’s someone who never lost touch with where he came from and yet reached heights that most of us can only admire from afar.

When I think of success, I think of Sir Alex Ferguson. Not just for the trophies, but for the man he is, and the values he instilled in others. He was a winner, yes—but more importantly, he was a leader.

Sir Alex’s approach to leadership also left a mark on me as I grew up, particularly in my own role as a manager. What stood out to me most was how much he genuinely cared about the people he interacted with on a personal level. He knew the fine details about their lives, from their family members to their pets, showing a level of care that goes beyond the professional. This is something I strive to incorporate into my own management style—looking after people, recognising they are not just machines. By learning about them as individuals, I can help them on a human level, and that builds respect, trust, and team cohesion.

Thanks for the continued lessons Sir Alex.