Meeting the Leadership Demands of the 21st Century

Abstract

Organizational leaders have a disproportionate effect on the performance of an organization compared to non-leaders, operate in an increasingly complex and changing environment, and are generally not as successful as stakeholders hope they will be. We wonder whether leadership theory and research is keeping up with the demands placed on organizational leaders and whether it translates into actual benefits for such leaders. The purpose of this symposium is to present leadership research focused on meeting the leadership demands of the 21st century. Specifically, the papers in this symposium focus on (1) how organizations can ensure that their leadership development is effective, (2) how formal leadership development programs help individuals self-define as leaders, and (3) the requirements of a 21st century leader. Following four research presentations, the symposium organizer will lead a discussion on how to ensure leadership research can meet the demands of a 21st century leader, and will draw upon the collective wisdom of the prolific leadership researchers involved in this symposium. Making Responsible Leadership More Responsible Presenter: Kevin B Lowe; The U. of Auckland