A tight reign

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is is to depict an example of an abusive, bullying manager; suggest what effects those abusive practices were having on individuals and the organization; note the potential ethical, legal and organizational issues involved; prompt analysis of organizational conditions and practices that allow such behavior; and promote consideration of preventive policies, programs and practices.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a case study based on interviews, observations and document analysis. An extended literature review was examined to prepare a companion Instructor's Manual.

Findings

The bullying and abusive behavior of a firm's senior executive was seriously damaging the value and operating performance of the firm. The training manager was in a position to promote effective organizational responses to the bullying executive.

Practical implications

A variety of administrative, legal and/or ethical requirements indicate that the training director should act. In the companion Instructor's Manual, a number of preventive and recuperative interventions are suggested.

Originality/value

This paper provides one of the first detailed case histories of the nature of bullying behavior at an executive level and the effects such behavior has on the organization.

Citation

Clardy, A. and Beadle, S. (2010), "A tight reign", Journal of Management Development, Vol. 29 No. 3, pp. 292-303. https://doi.org/10.1108/02621710911000695