Competences Associated to Sustainable Leadership Practices: A Study Carried Out in the Public City Administration of Fazenda Rio Grande, State of Paraná

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to identify the competences associated to sustainable leadership practices in the public city administration of Fazenda Rio Grande, Paraná. Literature review: The study addresses the concepts of professional competences and sustainable leadership and how they can be applied to the public sector from the perspective of public city administrators. Method: This is a qualitative and exploratory study that was carried out in the City Hall of Fazenda Rio Grande, Paraná. It derived out of the analysis of official documents and semi-structured interviews conducted with eleven public city administrators. Results and conclusion: The study has revealed that the necessary competences for sustainable leadership practices in the public administration of Fazenda Rio Grande, Paraná are: public resource management, strategic planning, focusing on citizens, people management, environmental sustainability orientation, and environmental awareness. Discussion: The study can provide public administrators with a way to reflect upon their practices, which can positively impact the improvement of their competences and conduct related to the performance of their duties, along with working as a model for public policies characterized by social transformation. Originality/value: Identifying the competences associated with sustainable leadership practices in public administration facilitates reflection about the enhancement or development of attributes that are essential for improving the quality of life and well-being of citizens, along with promoting sustainable territorial development at the local level.