In Belbin workshops we enjoy using the ‘create a famous team’ exercise. It helps people to have fun as they unpack how each of the Team Role styles may manifest in various characters.
Belbin's Team Role model identifies nine distinct behavioural roles that people often assume within a team. Below are some lists of famous historical and cultural figures for a bit of fun that may that align well with these roles.
In the exercise teams discuss and decide on what they feel are great examples for each of the 9 Team Role Styles. Clients give us amazing examples from all realms of human experience in this exercise, from both fact and fiction, as well as their own workplaces. Some teams use real people, whilst others (often those with plenty of Plants) will create a list using colourful fiction like Star Wars, Lord of the Rings or other well-crafted characters. Fictional characters that are usually crafted from strong archtypes, as George Lucas did with Star Wars, can make for fun ways to explore behavioural traits.
People can easily have more than one natural team role style, and so examples may appear credibly in multiple team role styles, just as we all will have more than one team role in our daily work teams. There is of course subjectivity around some examples based on interpretations made based on their known behaviours.
Getting teams to create their own lists is always a great conversation starter and a bit of a 'Trojan Horse' for personalising the Belbin Model in a Belbin workshop.
A LIST FROM GENERAL HISTORY, VARIOUS FIELDS AND TIMES
1. Plant (Creative and Innovative Problem-Solver)
Leonardo da Vinci (1452–1519) – Renaissance polymath known for his innovative designs and inventions.
Nikola Tesla (1856–1943) – Inventor and visionary in electricity and electromagnetism.
Virginia Woolf (1882–1941) – Pioneering modernist writer who challenged traditional literary norms.
Elon Musk (b. 1971) – Founder of SpaceX and Tesla, known for pushing technological boundaries.
Hayao Miyazaki (b. 1941) – Legendary Japanese animator and storyteller with imaginative worlds.
Alan Turing (1912–1954) – Mathematician and cryptanalyst who creatively broke the Enigma code.
2. Resource Investigator (Outgoing and Enthusiastic Networker)
Richard Branson (b. 1950) – Entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin Group.
Christopher Columbus (1451–1506) – Explorer who connected Europe to the Americas.
Amelia Earhart (1897–1937) – Aviator and pioneering networker for women in aviation.
Oprah Winfrey (b. 1954) – Media mogul and influential networker in entertainment and philanthropy.
Anthony Bourdain (1956–2018) – Chef and travel documentarian who explored cultures and cuisines globally.
Steve Jobs (1955–2011) – Co-founder of Apple, who developed networks and exploited opportunities.
3. Coordinator (Mature and calm organiser of people)
Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882–1945) – U.S. President during the Great Depression and WWII.
Pericles (c. 495–429 BC) – Influential leader during Athens' Golden Age.
Queen Elizabeth I (1533–1603) – Monarch who skillfully coordinated political alliances and fostered a cultural renaissance.
Nelson Mandela (1918–2013) – Anti-apartheid revolutionary and first President of democratic South Africa.
Satya Nadella (b. 1967) – CEO of Microsoft, known for fostering collaboration and transformation.
4. Shaper (Driven and Dynamic, Mission Focused)
Margaret Thatcher (1925–2013) – Former British Prime Minister with a strong focus on reform.
Alexander the Great (356–323 BC) – Conqueror who shaped the ancient world with his campaigns.
Steve Jobs (1955–2011) – Co-founder of Apple, who demanded excellence and innovation.
Serena Williams (b. 1981) – Tennis champion known for her fierce determination and leadership on the court.
Elon Musk (b. 1971) – Relentless driver behind technological advancements in multiple fields.
5. Monitor Evaluator (Objective and Analytical Decision-Maker)
Alan Turing (1912–1954) – Mathematician and cryptanalyst who broke the Enigma code.
Sun Tzu (c. 544–496 BC) – Author of The Art of War, known for his analytical approach to strategy.
Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) – Founding Father of the U.S., inventor, and analytical thinker.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg (1933–2020) – Supreme Court Justice known for her meticulous legal reasoning.
Katherine Johnson (1918–2020) – NASA mathematician who contributed critical calculations for space missions.
6. Teamworker (Supportive and Harmonious Collaborator)
Florence Nightingale (1820–1910) – Pioneer of modern nursing and advocate for teamwork in healthcare.
Fred Rogers (1928–2003) – Television host known for fostering kindness and community.
Malala Yousafzai (b. 1997) – Education activist and advocate for global harmony and cooperation.
Eleanor Roosevelt (First Lady and Humanitarian) She was known for her ability to unite diverse groups and champion social causes, fostering collaboration between activists and politicians.
Desmond Tutu (Archbishop and Human Rights Activist)Played a vital role in maintaining peace and fostering collaboration during South Africa's transition from apartheid.
7. Implementer (Practical Organiser and Executor)
George Washington (1732–1799) – First U.S. President, key executor in national system building.
Catherine the Great (1729–1796) – Russian Empress who modernized and strengthened her empire.
Henry Ford (1863–1947) – Founder of Ford Motor Company, implemented the assembly line.
Tim Cook (b. 1960) – CEO of Apple, known for operational excellence.
Marie Kondo (b. 1984) – Decluttering expert and organizational guru.
8. Completer Finisher (Detail-Oriented Perfectionist)
Steve Jobs (1955–2011) – Insisted on meticulous design and product perfection at Apple.
Michelangelo (1475–1564) – Renaissance artist known for perfection in his sculptures and paintings.
Jane Austen (1775–1817) – Meticulous novelist with tightly crafted plots and character development.
Jeff Bezos (b. 1964) – Founder of Amazon, known for attention to operational detail.
Sergei Rachmaninoff (1873–1943) – Composer known for perfecting complex musical works.
9. Specialist (Expert with Deep Knowledge in a Field)
Marie Curie (1867–1934) – Pioneer in the field of radioactivity.
Ada Lovelace (1815–1852) – Mathematician, the first computer programmer.
Stephen Hawking (1942–2018) – Theoretical physicist and cosmologist.
Jane Goodall (b. 1934) – Expert in primatology and chimpanzee behavior.
Neil deGrasse Tyson (b. 1958) – Astrophysicist and science communicator.
FROM THE LORD OF THE RINGS TRILOGY:
1. Plant (Creative and Innovative Problem-Solver)
Gandalf – Constantly devises creative strategies to guide the Fellowship and outwit enemies.
Saruman – Though corrupted, he is an innovator in magic and warcraft, crafting his own schemes and technologies.
2. Resource Investigator (Outgoing and Enthusiastic Networker)
Meriadoc "Merry" Brandybuck – Builds alliances with the Riders of Rohan and navigates new environments.
Peregrin "Pippin" Took – Inquisitive and outgoing, often seeking information and forging connections (not always intentionally).
3. Coordinator (Calm and mature organiser of people)
Aragorn – Natural leader who organizes and rallies diverse groups to fight Sauron.
Elrond – Wise leader of Rivendell, skilled in coordinating alliances between Elves, Dwarves, and Men.
4. Shaper (Driven and Dynamic, Mission Focused)
Boromir – Relentless and passionate in his pursuit to defend Gondor and secure the Ring for victory.
Éowyn – Determined warrior who defies expectations to play a pivotal role in the Battle of Pelennor Fields.
5. Monitor Evaluator (Objective and Analytical Decision-Maker)
Legolas – Calm, analytical, and objective, often observing before taking action.
Denethor – Though flawed and pessimistic, he is highly analytical about Gondor's fate.
6. Teamworker (Supportive and Harmonious Collaborator)
Samwise Gamgee – Loyal, compassionate, and the emotional glue holding Frodo together on the journey.
Faramir – Gentle and cooperative, choosing collaboration and wisdom over brute force.
7. Implementer (Practical Organiser and Executor)
Théoden – Pragmatic king who rallies his people to war and executes battle strategies effectively.
Gimli – Reliable and hardworking, always ready to implement tactical decisions in combat.
8. Completer Finisher (Detail-Oriented Perfectionist)
Frodo Baggins – Meticulous and determined to see the mission to destroy the Ring through to the very end.
Galadriel – Carefully and precisely maintains the protection of Lothlórien and ensures the success of the Fellowship.
9. Specialist (Expert with Deep Knowledge in a Field)
Treebeard – Ancient and wise, with unparalleled knowledge of the forests and Ent-lore.
Gollum/Sméagol – Singularly obsessed and knowledgeable about the Ring and its history.
FROM STAR WARS:
1. Plant (Creative and Innovative Problem-Solver)
Anakin Skywalker – A mechanical genius and daring problem-solver, though often reckless.
Yoda – Wise and unconventional thinker, providing spiritual and strategic insights.
2. Resource Investigator (Outgoing and Enthusiastic Networker)
Han Solo – Charismatic smuggler with extensive connections across the galaxy.
Lando Calrissian – Smooth-talking entrepreneur and resourceful dealmaker.
3. Coordinator (Calm Organiser of Poeple)
Padmé Amidala – Diplomatic leader who orchestrates political alliances.
Mon Mothma – Key figure in coordinating the Rebel Alliance.
4. Shaper (Driven and Dynamic, Focused on Results)
Leia Organa – Strong-willed and results-oriented leader of the Rebel Alliance.
Mace Windu – Determined Jedi Master with a no-nonsense approach to decision-making.
5. Monitor Evaluator (Objective and Analytical Decision-Maker)
Obi-Wan Kenobi – Wise and level-headed Jedi who makes measured decisions.
Count Dooku – Calculating and analytical Sith Lord with a strategic mind.
6. Teamworker (Supportive and Harmonious Collaborator)
Chewbacca – Loyal and dependable companion who fosters teamwork.
C-3PO – Protocol droid dedicated to communication and diplomacy, fostering collaboration.
7. Implementer (Practical Organiser and Executor)
R2-D2 – Dependable and resourceful droid, often executing critical tasks under pressure.
Captain Rex – Loyal and disciplined Clone Trooper commander known for executing battle strategies.
8. Completer Finisher (Detail-Oriented Perfectionist)
Darth Vader – Meticulous and relentless in achieving perfection for the Empire's operations.
Bail Organa – Careful and detail-oriented in building the Rebel Alliance network.
9. Specialist (Expert with Deep Knowledge in a Field)
Palpatine (Darth Sidious) – Master manipulator and specialist in Sith lore and dark-side politics.
Watto – Junk dealer with deep knowledge of mechanics and trade on Tatooine.
FOR THE MILLENNIALS AND GEN Z
1. Plant (Creative and Innovative Problem-Solver)
Mark Zuckerberg (b. 1984) – Co-founder of Facebook, a pioneer in social media technology.
Billie Eilish (b. 2001) – Music artist known for her experimental and genre-defying approach to pop music.
2. Resource Investigator (Outgoing and Enthusiastic Networker)
Emma Chamberlain (b. 2001) – YouTuber and social media influencer known for exploring creative content and collaborating with brands.
Lewis Capaldi (b. 1996) – Outgoing singer-songwriter who engages dynamically with fans and media.
3. Coordinator (Calm Organiser of People)
Malala Yousafzai (b. 1997) – Nobel Prize-winning education activist who leads advocacy efforts globally.
Zendaya (b. 1996) – Actress and cultural icon who seamlessly leads projects and social conversations.
4. Shaper (Driven and Dynamic, Misison)
Simone Biles (b. 1997) – Olympic gymnast known for her intense focus and drive to achieve groundbreaking results.
Kylie Jenner (b. 1997) – Entrepreneur and media personality who shaped a global cosmetics empire.
5. Monitor Evaluator (Objective and Analytical Decision-Maker)
Greta Thunberg (b. 2003) – Climate activist with a sharp, analytical approach to environmental issues.
Timothée Chalamet (b. 1995) – Actor known for his thoughtful approach to selecting nuanced and meaningful roles.
6. Teamworker (Supportive and Harmonious Collaborator)
Shawn Mendes (b. 1998) – Singer-songwriter known for his collaborative spirit in the music industry.
Naomi Osaka (b. 1997) – Tennis star who advocates for mental health and fosters a supportive sports culture.
7. Implementer (Practical Organiser and Executor)
Jack Harlow (b. 1998) – Rapper and producer known for executing polished and well-produced tracks.
Emma Raducanu (b. 2002) – Tennis player who meticulously prepares and executes game strategies.
8. Completer Finisher (Detail-Oriented Perfectionist)
Taylor Swift (b. 1989) – Meticulous songwriter and artist known for her attention to every creative detail.
Finn Wolfhard (b. 2002) – Actor and musician with a reputation for carefully crafting performances.
9. Specialist (Expert with Deep Knowledge in a Field)
Emma González (b. 1999) – Activist with a deep understanding of gun reform and youth advocacy.
MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson, b. 1998) – YouTube content creator with unparalleled expertise in viral content and philanthropy.
FROM THE DC AND MARVEL UNIVERSES
1. Plant (Creative, unorthodox, and innovative)
Marvel: Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic) - A genius who constantly invents and develops groundbreaking technology.
DC: Victor Stone (Cyborg) - Highly inventive, merging man and machine to solve problems creatively.
2. Resource Investigator (Outgoing, enthusiastic, and explores opportunities)
Marvel: Tony Stark (Iron Man) - A charismatic businessman who secures resources and connects with allies across the world.
DC: Hal Jordan (Green Lantern) - Fearless and social, always looking for allies and exploring the universe.
3. Co-ordinator (Mature, confident, and clarifies goals)
Marvel: Professor Charles Xavier (Professor X) - A calm and wise leader who aligns the X-Men's mission and keeps them focused.
DC: Wonder Woman (Diana Prince) - Inspires teamwork and brings clarity to group objectives with diplomacy and wisdom.
4. Shaper (Challenging, dynamic, thrives on pressure)
Marvel: Nick Fury - Relentlessly pushes the Avengers to overcome challenges and succeed under immense pressure.
DC: Amanda Waller - Forceful and results-driven, she ensures that Task Force X gets the job done regardless of obstacles.
5. Monitor Evaluator (Strategic, discerning, and impartial)
Marvel: Vision - Calm and logical, provides thoughtful insights to evaluate situations and guide the Avengers.
DC: Martian Manhunter (J'onn J'onzz) - Wise and analytical, often offering a balanced perspective during Justice League decision-making.
6. Teamworker (Cooperative, diplomatic, and builds relationships)
Marvel: Sam Wilson (Falcon/Captain America) - A supportive and empathetic team player who helps maintain harmony in the group.
DC: Barry Allen (The Flash) - Optimistic and supportive, fosters collaboration within the Justice League.
7. Implementer (Practical, disciplined, and turns ideas into action)
Marvel: Steve Rogers (Captain America) - Brings strategy to life with unwavering discipline and focused execution.
DC: Alfred Pennyworth - Reliable and practical, ensuring Batman's operations run smoothly and efficiently.
8. Completer Finisher (Conscientious, detail-oriented,perfection)
Marvel: Peter Parker (Spider-Man) - Incredibly meticulous and dedicated, always focused on getting things just right.
DC: Batman (Bruce Wayne) - Obsessively driven to complete tasks to perfection, ensuring every detail is accounted for.
9. Specialist (Single-minded, dedicated, in-depth knowledge)
Marvel: Doctor Strange - A master of the mystic arts, offering unparalleled expertise in magical matters.
DC: Oracle (Barbara Gordon) - Provides unparalleled tech expertise and data analysis for the Justice League.
SOME FAMOUS AUSTRALIANS
1. Plant (Creative, imaginative, problem-solver)
Baz Luhrmann: Visionary filmmaker known for his imaginative approach to cinema (Moulin Rouge!, Elvis).
Nick Cave: Iconic musician and songwriter celebrated for his creative and thought-provoking work.
Troye Sivan: Singer-songwriter and actor recognized for his innovative approach to music and visual storytelling.
2. Resource Investigator (Outgoing, enthusiastic, networker)
Steve Irwin: Wildlife conservationist who built global connections to promote environmental causes.
Hugh Jackman: Actor and philanthropist known for his charismatic networking within the global entertainment industry.
Hamish Blake: Comedian and media personality known for his vibrant presence and strong industry connections.
3. Coordinator (Confident, mature, delegator)
Julia Gillard: Former Prime Minister of Australia, recognized for leading and coordinating political teams.
Gillon McLachlan: CEO of the AFL, noted for his leadership and strategic coordination of the league.
Dylan Alcott: Paralympian, advocate, and media personality who brings people together for important causes.
4. Shaper (Challenging, dynamic, driven)
Ash Barty: Former world number one tennis player, known for her fierce determination and resilience.
Zoe Foster Blake: Entrepreneur and author who disrupted the beauty industry with Go-To Skincare.
Kayla Itsines: Fitness entrepreneur and influencer who transformed the online fitness space with her workout programs.
5. Monitor Evaluator (Strategic, discerning, objective)
Paul Keating: Former Prime Minister of Australia, known for his analytical and strategic approach to economic reforms.
Kerry O'Brien: Veteran journalist recognized for his incisive and balanced interviews.
Leigh Sales: Journalist and former 7.30 Report anchor known for her objective and insightful analysis.
6. Teamworker (Cooperative, perceptive, diplomatic)
Pat Rafter: Former tennis champion celebrated for his sportsmanship and supportive demeanor on and off the court.
Deborah Mailman: Actor known for her collaborative spirit and positive influence in Australian television and film.
Guy Sebastian: Musician and The Voice coach known for his collaborative and positive influence in the industry.
7. Implementer (Practical, reliable, efficient)
Cathy Freeman: Olympic champion who demonstrated discipline and determination in executing her sporting goals.
Anthony Pratt: Businessman and leader of Visy Industries, recognized for efficient business practices.
Celeste Barber: Comedian and activist known for efficiently turning social media fame into charitable initiatives.
8. Completer Finisher (Detail-oriented, perfectionist, conscientious)
Ian Thorpe: Olympic swimmer known for his meticulous preparation and attention to detail.
Emma McKeon: Record-breaking swimmer celebrated for her precision and consistent performances.
Margot Robbie: Actor renowned for her meticulous preparation and attention to detail in diverse roles.
9. Specialist (Expert, dedicated, knowledgeable)
Tim Flannery: Environmental scientist and author, recognized for his deep knowledge in climate and environmental science.
Dr. Karl Kruszelnicki: Science communicator and author known for his vast scientific knowledge and engaging explanations.
Grace Tame: Advocate and survivor educator with a specialized focus on survivor rights and advocacy.
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