2020 Theses Doctoral

A Case Study Exploring Application and Development of Transformational Leadership in Chief Executive Officers of Professional Services Businesses

Bharwaney, Roshan

Transformational leaders in professional services businesses can help develop and inspire people and organizations to overcome disruption and succeed. At the same time, numerous pressures on leaders, such as quarterly financial reporting and the shift from long-term engagements to project-based work, may cause leaders to focus on the transactional and short term. Transformational leadership in this study is defined as leadership that goes beyond exchange of rewards for achieved goals and places an emphasis on the needs and values of followers, thereby fostering transformation in people and organizations (Northouse, 2018). This study addresses how CEOs of professional services businesses are transformational with their clients and teams in a complex and challenging business environment that is steeped in transactional activities. The purpose of this research was to study CEOs of professional services businesses whose leadership styles have been identified by company executives as transformational. This study was carried out in order to understand if and how the nominated CEOs perceived that they demonstrated transformational leadership in complex and challenging work environments. This case study encompassed 10 CEOs of professional services businesses and 18 team members. Client satisfaction survey data were also analyzed to incorporate client perspectives. A major finding of this study was that a strong majority (82%) of CEOs and their team members reported that the most predominant transformational leadership activities in which the CEOs engaged were idealized influence, which consists of building trust and acting with integrity, and individualized consideration, which consists of listening carefully to individual needs, acting as coach or advisor, and treating others in unique and caring ways (Bass & Avolio, 1997). All CEOs (100%) learned to be transformational largely through informal means by drawing on past experiences. A majority (64%) of participants indicated that team members facilitated their transformational work, while 50% described lack of teamwork and organizational processes as impeding their transformational work. A key recommendation emanating from this study is that CEOs and those aspiring to become CEOs of professional services businesses engage in idealized influence and individualized consideration activities if they seek to be transformational.

  • Adult education
  • Transformational leadership
  • Chief executive officers
  • Professional corporations

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The Future of Leadership Development

  • Mihnea Moldoveanu
  • Das Narayandas

case study professional development leadership

Companies spend heavily on executive education but often get a meager return on their investment. That’s because business schools and other traditional educators aren’t adept at teaching the soft skills vital for success today, people don’t always stay with the organizations that have paid for their training, and learners often can’t apply classroom lessons to their jobs. The way forward, say business professors Mihnea Moldoveanu and Das Narayandas, lies in the “personal learning cloud”—the fast-growing array of online courses, interactive platforms, and digital tools from both legacy providers and upstarts. The PLC is transforming leadership development by making it easy and affordable to get personalized, socialized, contextualized, and trackable learning experiences.

Gaps in traditional executive education are creating room for approaches that are more tailored and democratic.

Idea in Brief

The problem.

Traditional approaches to leadership development no longer meet the needs of organizations or individuals.

The Reasons

There are three: (1) Organizations, which pay for leadership development, don’t always benefit as much as individual learners do. (2) Providers aren’t developing the soft skills organizations need. (3) It’s often difficult to apply lessons learned in class to the real world.

The Solution

A growing assortment of online courses, social platforms, and learning tools from both traditional providers and upstarts is helping to close the gaps.

The need for leadership development has never been more urgent. Companies of all sorts realize that to survive in today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous environment, they need leadership skills and organizational capabilities different from those that helped them succeed in the past. There is also a growing recognition that leadership development should not be restricted to the few who are in or close to the C-suite. With the proliferation of collaborative problem-solving platforms and digital “adhocracies” that emphasize individual initiative, employees across the board are increasingly expected to make consequential decisions that align with corporate strategy and culture. It’s important, therefore, that they be equipped with the relevant technical, relational, and communication skills.

Whom do you know, and what can they teach you?

  • MM Mihnea Moldoveanu is the Marcel Desautels Professor of Integrative Thinking, a professor of economic analysis, and director of the Desautels Centre for Integrative Thinking and of Rotman Digital at the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto.
  • DN Das Narayandas is the Edsel Bryant Ford Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School.

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case study professional development leadership

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case study professional development leadership

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case study professional development leadership

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case study professional development leadership

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case study professional development leadership

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case study professional development leadership

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case study professional development leadership

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Leadership Development Case Studies

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Otter Tail Corporation and MDA Leadership have partnered for over a decade to create award-winning leadership development solutions that bring together participants from across Otter Tail’s diverse companies and build their talent pipeline for enduring success. Learn more here.

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case study professional development leadership

The Best Leadership Case Studies and Examples

Welcome to our article on the best leadership case studies and examples! Whether you\’re a business professional looking to improve your leadership skills or simply interested in learning from remarkable leaders, this article is here to inspire and educate you. Leadership is a crucial aspect of any organization, and studying real-life examples can provide valuable insights into effective leadership strategies. Throughout this article, we will explore various case studies and examples that highlight exceptional leadership qualities and achievements. So, grab a cup of coffee and get ready to be inspired by some of the world\’s most influential leaders!

Introduction to Leadership Case Studies and Examples

Leadership case studies are real-life examples of successful leaders who have made a significant impact in their respective fields. These case studies provide valuable insights into effective leadership strategies and serve as inspiration for individuals looking to enhance their own leadership skills.

Understanding leadership case studies

Leadership case studies are in-depth examinations of specific leaders and their leadership styles, actions, and decisions. These studies outline the challenges faced by the leaders and the strategies they employed to overcome them and achieve success.

By analyzing these case studies, we can gain a thorough understanding of the qualities, skills, and behaviors that contribute to effective leadership. It allows us to explore different leadership styles and approaches, learning from both the successes and failures of leaders in various contexts.

The importance of leadership examples

Examining leadership examples allows us to learn from the experiences of exceptional leaders and understand the qualities and practices that contribute to their success. These examples help us develop a deeper understanding of leadership principles and apply them in our own contexts.

Leadership examples also provide inspiration and motivation for aspiring leaders. They demonstrate that leadership is not limited to a select few individuals but can be cultivated by anyone through dedication and continuous learning.

Benefits of studying leadership case studies

Studying leadership case studies offers numerous benefits, such as improving decision-making skills, enhancing communication abilities, fostering innovation, and inspiring others.

Firstly, studying case studies improves our decision-making skills by exposing us to different leadership scenarios. We can learn how successful leaders approach complex situations, make critical decisions, and navigate challenges effectively.

Secondly, case studies enhance our communication abilities by showcasing effective communication strategies employed by leaders. We can learn how leaders capture their vision, inspire teams, and communicate their expectations clearly and persuasively.

Furthermore, leadership case studies foster innovation by highlighting leaders who have successfully driven change and embraced new ideas. Studying such examples encourages creative thinking and challenges individuals to explore unconventional approaches.

Finally, leadership case studies inspire others by showcasing how leaders have overcome obstacles and achieved remarkable success. These examples motivate individuals to strive for greatness, develop their leadership skills, and make a positive impact in their personal and professional lives.

In conclusion, leadership case studies provide valuable insights into effective leadership strategies and serve as a source of inspiration for individuals looking to enhance their own leadership skills. By studying these examples, we can learn from exceptional leaders, understand the qualities that contribute to their success, and apply these learnings in our own contexts. Furthermore, the benefits of studying leadership case studies extend beyond personal growth, improving decision-making, communication, fostering innovation, and inspiring others.

Leadership Case Study: Elon Musk

Elon Musk is renowned for his innovative mindset and willingness to take risks. His ability to envision and execute groundbreaking projects, such as Tesla and SpaceX, showcases his exceptional leadership skills and inspires others to think big.

Innovative mindset and risk-taking

Elon Musk is an extraordinary leader with an unparalleled innovative mindset and a strong willingness to take risks. He is not afraid to challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what is possible. Musk has been instrumental in revolutionizing the automotive industry with his electric car company, Tesla. By introducing electric vehicles that are both practical and desirable, Musk has disrupted the market and paved the way for sustainable transportation.

Furthermore, Musk\’s unwavering belief in the potential of space exploration has led him to establish SpaceX. Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks, Musk has propelled SpaceX to become a leading private space company. His audacious goal of colonizing Mars is a testament to his fearless approach to risk-taking and his determination to push the boundaries of human achievement.

Unwavering determination and resilience

One of Elon Musk\’s most admirable leadership qualities is his unwavering determination and resilience in the face of challenges. Musk has encountered numerous setbacks throughout his career, but he never allows failure to deter him. Instead, he sees failures as valuable learning experiences and opportunities for growth.

Musk\’s relentless pursuit of his goals is evident in the countless hours he dedicates to his work. He is known for working incredibly long hours, often sleeping at Tesla\’s factory during critical production phases. This level of dedication and commitment inspires his team members to give their best and go the extra mile to achieve success.

Transformational leadership style

Elon Musk embodies a transformational leadership style, which has been key to his success in leading innovative companies like Tesla and SpaceX. He possesses a unique ability to motivate and empower his teams, encouraging them to strive for excellence and adopt a shared sense of purpose.

Musk\’s visionary approach inspires creativity among his employees. He encourages them to think beyond conventional limits and pursue ambitious and unconventional ideas. This approach has led to groundbreaking innovations in electric vehicle technology and space exploration.

Moreover, Musk leads by example and is actively involved in every aspect of his companies\’ operations. He fosters a culture of open communication and collaboration, giving his team members the freedom to experiment and contribute their ideas. This inclusive leadership style creates a sense of shared ownership and responsibility, empowering the team to achieve extraordinary results.

In conclusion, Elon Musk\’s leadership case study showcases his exceptional abilities as a visionary leader. His innovative mindset and willingness to take risks, along with his unwavering determination and resilience, make him a role model for aspiring leaders. Musk\’s transformational leadership style empowers his teams to strive for greatness and achieve extraordinary results. His story serves as a testament to the power of effective leadership in driving innovation and making a difference in the world.

Leadership Case Study: Indra Nooyi

Inclusive leadership style.

Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo, is widely recognized for her inclusive leadership style. Throughout her tenure, she actively embraced diversity and fostered an inclusive culture within the company. By valuing and appreciating individual differences, Nooyi successfully built strong, diverse teams that were not only innovative but also instrumental in driving the company\’s overall success.

Nooyi\’s commitment to inclusivity resulted in a workforce that felt heard and valued, enabling employees to bring their best selves to work. This inclusive environment promoted collaboration and encouraged individuals to share their unique ideas and perspectives. By harnessing the power of diverse thinking, PepsiCo was able to remain at the forefront of the industry, continuously adapting to changing consumer demands and preferences.

Strategic decision-making

One of the key factors contributing to Nooyi\’s success as a leader was her exceptional strategic decision-making abilities. Throughout her tenure as CEO, she demonstrated a deep understanding of market trends, allowing her to make informed decisions that were critical to PepsiCo\’s growth and global expansion.

Nooyi\’s focus on long-term sustainability propelled PepsiCo forward, ensuring the company\’s continued success in an ever-evolving market. She consistently made decisions that aligned with the company\’s broader vision, effectively balancing short-term objectives with long-term goals. By having a clear grasp of where the industry was heading and anticipating future trends, Nooyi was able to position PepsiCo as an industry leader.

Effective communication and influence

Nooyi\’s exceptional communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders were pivotal to her leadership success. She possessed a clear vision and effectively communicated it to various stakeholders, including employees, investors, and partners.

By articulating her ideas and goals persuasively, Nooyi was able to garner support and build strong relationships with key stakeholders. Her communication style was genuine, approachable, and relatable, allowing her to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. This enabled her to not only motivate her teams but also foster trust and authenticity within the organization.

Nooyi\’s influence extended beyond the walls of PepsiCo, as she actively engaged with policymakers and industry leaders, advocating for the company\’s values and interests. Her ability to build relationships, coupled with her influential communication style, earned her respect and admiration within the business world.

Leadership Case Study: Jacinda Ardern

Authentic and empathetic leadership

New Zealand\’s Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, is widely recognized for her authentic and empathetic approach to leadership. This has been particularly evident during times of crises, such as the Christchurch mosque shootings and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Ardern\’s ability to connect with people on a human level and genuinely understand their emotions and concerns has earned her admiration on a global scale.

Inclusive decision-making and collaboration

Ardern\’s leadership style is characterized by inclusive decision-making and a strong emphasis on collaboration. She recognizes the importance of involving diverse perspectives and ensuring that all voices are heard when making crucial decisions. By actively seeking input from experts and engaging with communities, Ardern has been able to foster a sense of unity and trust among citizens. This has not only resulted in better outcomes, but also strengthened the bond between the government and the people it serves.

Resilience and crisis management

In times of crisis, Ardern has consistently displayed resilience and effective crisis management skills. She has the ability to remain calm and composed when faced with adversity, providing reassurance to the public and instilling confidence in her leadership. Ardern\’s transparent and straightforward communication during challenging situations has been highly praised and has contributed to a sense of trust and belief in her ability to lead.

Overall, Jacinda Ardern\’s leadership case study serves as a testament to the power of authentic and empathetic leadership. Her inclusive decision-making process and collaborative approach have created unity and trust among citizens, while her resilience and crisis management skills have garnered international recognition. By prioritizing the well-being of her people and genuinely connecting with them, Ardern has set an example for leaders around the world.

Conclusion: Learnings from Leadership Case Studies and Examples

Leadership case studies and examples provide valuable insights into developing a unique leadership style, emphasizing continuous growth and learning, and inspiring and empowering others.

Developing a unique leadership style

Studying leadership case studies and examples allows individuals to identify and develop their own distinctive leadership styles. By examining the practices of exceptional leaders, we can adopt their successful strategies and customize them to suit our specific circumstances. This enables us to cultivate a leadership approach that aligns with our values, strengths, and goals.

Continuous growth and learning

Leadership case studies serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of continuous growth and learning in leadership. They emphasize the need for leaders to actively seek out opportunities to expand their knowledge, enhance their skills, and stay up-to-date with industry trends. By dedicating ourselves to ongoing growth, we can ensure that we remain effective and adaptable leaders, capable of navigating challenges and seizing opportunities.

Inspiring and empowering others

One of the most significant lessons we can learn from leadership case studies and examples is how to inspire and empower others. These studies not only inspire us with stories of exceptional leaders but also empower us to become catalysts for positive change. By implementing effective leadership strategies that we have learned from these case studies, we can not only achieve success but also inspire and empower those around us to reach their full potential as leaders.

Sharing our experiences and lessons learned from leadership case studies can be a powerful way to inspire and empower others. We can serve as role models, guiding and supporting individuals in their journey towards becoming exceptional leaders. By openly sharing our experiences, challenges, and triumphs, we create a supportive network that fosters growth and encourages others to develop their own leadership capabilities.

In conclusion, leadership case studies and examples play a crucial role in our personal and professional development. They enable us to develop our unique leadership styles, emphasize the importance of continuous growth and learning, and empower us to become inspiring leaders who can drive positive change. By studying the experiences and strategies of exceptional leaders, we can learn from their successes and failures, ultimately becoming better leaders ourselves.

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  • Professional Leadership Development Training Case Study

Executive Summary

For years, leaders and aspiring leaders have been told that the way to become a better leader is to accumulate a certain amount of “leadership” skills. Unfortunately, that is not how the top academic organizational leadership programs have approached teaching leadership for decades. It is taught as a leadership improvement journey where aspiring leaders discover themselves as they develop their personal leadership philosophy and are provided ongoing mentoring throughout the program. The Healthcare Center of Excellence (HCOE) sought to apply a similar approach using tools to measure leadership improvement over time and produce results.

Methodology

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In an ongoing leadership development training program, the HCOE conducted 3 cohorts of the Professional Leadership Training (PLT) program at Norwegian American Hospital , a 200-bed, acute care facility on the northside of Chicago. The second cohort included leaders who reported directly or indirectly to the organization’s C-Level and other top executives to the leaders, who participated in the first cohort. The second cohort was the largest and the one which yielded the most data to analyze, which is the subject of this case study.

The proprietary Leadership Impact Survey (LIS) was used to quantify and monitor the results of the leadership improvement training, with the survey taken before the course and at 3-month, 6-month and 12-month increments after the course completion. When analyzing results from the pre-course survey to the 3-months post-course survey responses, the cohort realized leadership improvement from 3% to 22% across all 9 dimensions measured, with an average improvement of 10% and median of 8%.

case study professional development leadership

Based on these results, it can be concluded that Professional Leadership Training is an effective program for improving leadership throughout an organization and can provide measurable results for an organization to track leadership improvement.

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Leadership development – case studies of professional learning for school leadership

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case study professional development leadership

Thematic report | 11/03/2020

pdf, 773.67 KB Added 11/03/2020

The report is intended for the Welsh Government, headteachers and staff in schools and may be of interest to local authorities, regional consortia, the National Academy for Educational Leadership and others. The report includes detailed case studies of the professional learning opportunities provided for staff in nine schools across Wales.

Recommendations

To improve the provision and quality of leadership development, regional consortia and other providers of professional learning should work together to consider:

  • R1 How to increase the focus on developing leaders’ ability to bring about improvement in the quality of teaching and learning
  • R2 How best to evaluate the impact of leadership development programmes over time

Resource tags

COMMENTS

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  2. Leadership Development: Articles, Research, & Case Studies on

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    This case study qualitatively examines the process and outcomes of teacher-initiated professional development through the experiences of an action research collective. Following the group over the course of two years, findings detail how a voluntary group of colleagues organised and experienced leading their own professional development.

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  21. PDF Leadership development

    The case studies show: how leadership development can drive improvements in teaching and learning. how schools can develop leaders to support local and national initiatives. how schools can enable middle leaders to improve standards and provision in their schools. the positive impact of coaching and mentoring.

  22. Leadership development

    Leadership development - case studies of professional learning for school leadership. pdf, 773.67 KB Added 11/03/2020. Download in Welsh. The report is intended for the Welsh Government, headteachers and staff in schools and may be of interest to local authorities, regional consortia, the National Academy for Educational Leadership and others.

  23. Teacher leadership for school-based professional development: A case study

    Semantic Scholar extracted view of "Teacher leadership for school-based professional development: A case study" by Muhammad Jumma Abdalla et al. ... @inproceedings{Abdalla2009TeacherLF, title={Teacher leadership for school-based professional development: A case study}, author={Muhammad Jumma Abdalla and Rashida Qureshi}, year={2009}, url={https ...