Leaders and managers: Essential skills required within higher education

Abstract

As the leaders of today's higher educational institutions create and enhance their vision to meet the needs of the changing student population into the twenty-first century, the skills and attributes required are also changing. This article provides an overview of those skills and attributes viewed as valuable in this changing environment, such as encouraging reflective backtalk and the ability to see the long view; the roles (e.g., figurehead, leader, and liaison) and relationships (both internal and external to the institution) in which the leaders are engaged; governance and organizational structures of colleges and universities (particularly in the United States); the culture, values, and vision of these institutions; and strategic planning and financial management processes required. It is imperative that the leaders and managers of our higher educational institutions embrace all their roles, share responsibility with formal and informal leaders from faculty and staff groups, and recognize and embrace change.