The leadership journey

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present a personal reflection on leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on over 40 years of the author holding leadership roles in the personal social services in the UK, within a career which included 14 years leading an organisation with over 3,000 employees and a turn‐over, at today's costs, of £250 million.

Findings

The learning about leadership started at school and university, and a major lesson has been to recognise that leadership is not a solo activity. It encompasses a collaborative requirement to work with colleagues and to promote and value their contribution.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful information on leadership gleaned from personal observation.

Citation

Jones, R. (2012), "The leadership journey", International Journal of Leadership in Public Services, Vol. 8 No. 2, pp. 77-82. https://doi.org/10.1108/17479881211260445