Academic leadership is one of the most important foundations for success in our universities. However, leadership and management in academia presents its own challenges with many promoted to higher positions without proper training or a clear understanding of the complexity of the roles they are expected to fulfil.
So, just how does one balance an academic experience and leadership responsibilities and set about improving managerial skills?
According to Dr Oliver Seale (above), Director: Higher Education Leadership and Management (HELM) programme at Universities South Africa (USAf), planning, preparation and support is key.
“We say to our deans, you were chosen and stepped up because you are good at what you do, as academic leaders. We can teach you the management requirements and skills. You just need to stay the course.”