Leaders for the Future

As we approach the elections this year, I’ve been giving thought to what kind of leaders our city needs.

At the recent Local Government Conference in Dunedin, several speakers identified the changing expectations of our citizens, reflecting that change in leadership style is critical. The traditional bureaucratic leadership model is based on a hierarchy bound by process, rules and complexity and it no longer meets our needs.

Bureaucracy is undergoing a massive transformation and it no longer fits our rapidly changing world.  It has become increasingly apparent that bureaucratic leaders are at odds with the desires of their communities and the constantly changing environment we live in.

Citizens are becoming more engaged and seek to actively participate in planning the future of their cities, neighbourhoods and governing bodies.  They see a direct connection with decisions made by local and central government and the degree of happiness they feel in their own lives.

Communities need creative thinkers who value new ideas and who demonstrate a willingness to work collaboratively with a wide range of people and groups. Decision-making is more robust when the community has been involved early and leadership today requires shaking up traditional forms of local decision-making.

There is a new style of leadership emerging to meet these challenges.  It centres on what the public value.

Today’s leaders are able to recognise that public value is measured in a variety of ways.  They recognise that GDP, prudent debt levels and good financial management are not the only indicators of success.

Leaders are needed who are willing to understand the diverse needs of citizens and the aspirations of the community and continually seek more and better ways of working in partnerships.

So back to the elections...

Here are some of the attributes I believe our future leaders need to possess.

Someone who…

• Has a positive attitude and is equally comfortable either taking the lead or being part of a team.

• Insists on excellence by leading by example and who can happily share knowledge.

• Is confident and passionate, consistently motivated and optimistic.

• Sees opportunities where others see obstacles.

• Is able to lift their eyes above the potholes and dare to vision a future for the benefit of the whole community.

• Plans for succession and grows the leadership potential of those around them.

• Strives to upskill and sees value in professional development and networking opportunities, both within the sector and externally.

• Considers national and global trends and applies that thinking in a local context.

 I hope this list is helpful as you make your choices in the upcoming elections.