In memoriam: Stephen Bungay

Stephen Bungay (Sep 2, 1954 – May 16, 2026)

Stephen Francis Bungay passed away on May 16, 2026 after a long fight with lymphoma, or as he described it in his characteristic playful manner; his medical Odyssey and battle with Poseidon.

Stephen was gifted as few with a unique combination of sharp wit, generosity and kindness. He touched and inspired countless people across the world, and not least in Denmark where he had many fans and friends.

His curiosity (and I imagine slight rebellious inclination) led him through an adventurous professional life – from early studies in modern languages and a doctorate in philosophy to a long tenure in Boston Consulting Group and wide recognition as military historian, author, and thought leader on leadership and getting stuff done. His seminal book, ‘The Art of Action’ has rightfully become a classic for both leadership practitioners and scholars.

For me, Stephen was both a professional mentor and a dear friend. We were kindred spirits in our shared interest in military history and leadership, and in recent years we could unfortunately also share war-stories about our personal battles with cancer (I lost a kidney to cancer a few years back). We had a small book club where I sent him literature by Danish authors that we could discuss. He was quite fond of ‘We, the drowned’ by Carsten Jensen but less impressed with ‘The Fall of the King’ by Johannes V. Jensen. A man of refined taste, tremendous knowledge and sharp opinions.

Stephen is deeply missed. Not with sadness alone, but with gratitude and admiration as a testament to a life well lived.

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