Taking on a broader mandate at VP or SVP level is rarely accompanied by clear operational boundaries. The remit expands, visibility increases, and expectations accumulate often faster than they are explicitly discussed.In the early phase, scope is shaped less by formal agreement and more by behavior.Leaders make themselves available.They absorb unresolved issues.They step into gaps to keep momentum and avoid disruption.Over time, those choices define the role as much as the job description does.In this episode of Grounded and Aligned™, Karen Gombault examines what needs to be decided early when responsibility increases — before workload, availability, and accountability become assumed rather than intentional.Karen looks atHow expanded scope is often established through early responsiveness rather than explicit mandateWhy boundaries at VP–SVP level are rarely clarified unless the leader clarifies themThe effect of sustained availability on judgment and decision quality as volume increasesWhy effectiveness at senior level depends on maintaining capacity outside the roleHow postponing delegation keeps senior leaders in execution longer than the role requiresFrom the episode: “No one is going to set a boundary for you. If you say yes, people will take advantage of your time.” - Karen GombaultSenior roles usually become difficult through accumulation, not crisis.Small, reasonable decisions made early tend to define the long-term operating model of the role.At this level, leadership is demonstrated less by responsiveness and more by discernment, particularly around scope, ownership, and what no longer is of your responsibility.Use this link to book your 2026 Atelier call before Jan. 31, 2026: https://calendly.com/kareng-coaching/introductionNext stepsIf you are stepping into a larger remit, or recognising that your current role has expanded beyond what was originally agreed, a short Executive Pulse Call can help you take stock of where expectations need to be clarified.Fifteen minutes.One current situation.Clear perspective on scope, boundaries, and delegation.🧭 Book an Executive Pulse Callhttps://calendly.com/kareng-coaching/executive-pulse☕ Grounded and Aligned™ Daily Coffee ChatConcise weekday reflections on senior leadership, expanded mandates, and executive decision-making.https://www.karengombault.com/offers/wuqAChoZ/checkout🤝 Connect on LinkedInFollow Karen’s writing on senior leadership roles, authority, and sustainable scope.https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/