We have more data than ever but less trust than ever, and when leaders refrain from judgement and optimise everything, people are left frazzled and sceptical. Too many decisions fail not because they are wrong, but because trust doesn't travel.

Decisions That Carry explores what it takes to make rigorous and authentic decisions and bring people with you. Drawing on personal stories and examples from global leaders, it introduces the Yellow Bag Framework - a practical, repeatable way to access and combine judgement, data and story. It will help you make balanced decisions alongside AI and make your judgement visible enough that others can believe in it and own it - inspiring commitment, not just compliance.

For leaders whose decisions need to carry beyond them, this book holds the questions you need to be asking.

Good leaders own their decisions. Great leaders make decisions others can carry.

REVIEWS

"Fiona writes with real honesty about the moment the data ran out - and she still had to decide. This is a practical leadership guide every leader needs for making genuinely human decisions in an increasingly data-rich world. As AI reshapes work, our judgement, values and humanity matter more, not less."
John Boumphrey, VP and Country Manager UK and Republic of Ireland, Amazon

"A thoughtful book about taking people with you when you make decisions - and the barriers and enablers we can all work on."
Ben Page, Visiting Professor, King's College London; former CEO Ipsos UK

This book is a critical reminder that great leadership isn't just about processing information but about understanding who you are, what you stand for, and how your values, experiences and stories shape the judgement you bring to decisions when data alone isn't enough."
Deborah Clarke, VP Product, Zalando

"A refreshingly down-to-earth and accessible perspective on how to approach the difficult question of what evidence to use - and how to use it - when making decisions. It is accessible, clear and consistent, and is interspersed with reflective questions to help the reader define their own path through the leadership challenge."
Dr Claire Barlow, Emeritus Faculty, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge

"For years, leaders have been told to trust the data and ignore their gut. McDonnell challenges that thinking with a refreshing, deeply human take on leadership. Decisions That Carry is essential reading for every leader navigating an increasingly data-led, complex world."
Kerry Smith, Chief People Officer, The British Heart Foundation

"McDonnell's authenticity shines through on every page. This is a thoughtful, practical, and highly relevant read for anyone seeking to make better decisions and lead with greater confidence and impact."
Caroline Brady, Global Head of Customer Experience, Repligen