Follow the leader? A viewpoint on the exercise of leadership

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a viewpoint on the exercise of leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides a view on the author's experience of exercising leadership as Leader of the Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care Department in Sheffield Health and Social Care NHS Foundation Trust (in England).

Findings

The author argues that leadership is as much intuition as science and considers how courageous leadership coupled with sound management can transform a service. A paradigm shift is proposed and its impact on various dimensions of the service is considered. Finally, but fundamentally, it is suggested that services need to re‐orientate themselves radically around the hopes and aspirations of those they purport to serve. They need to start doing things with people rather than to them.

Originality/value

This viewpoint provides insights relevant to anyone leading a small team within a large organisation or exercising organisation‐wide leadership. It will be particularly helpful to leaders seeking to find the answers in very turbulent times when the way ahead is far from clear.

Citation

Raffay, J. (2011), "Follow the leader? A viewpoint on the exercise of leadership", International Journal of Leadership in Public Services, Vol. 7 No. 2, pp. 166-177. https://doi.org/10.1108/17479881111160159