A Question of Leadership (PDF)

A fascinating guide to effective leadership in times of crises, with a psychological underpinning that provides both context and practical advice.

Whether planned or unexpected, change can present leaders with some of their toughest sustained challenges, regardless of seniority or the organisation's size. In A Question of Leadership, Keith Leslie provides a wide range of illustrative case studies derived from both research and his first-hand experience in the public and private sectors. They are united by an overarching thesis: the failure of many change initiatives is caused by the leader's inability to fully consider the consequences and magnitude of the situation. Across business and society, the prevalence and impacts of such short-sighted mistakes has become more apparent than ever following the onset of the Covid pandemic in 2020.

Each chapter provides an engaging narrative that presents a relatable leadership dilemma, before undertaking an analysis of what works and when it should be implemented and, finally, actionable advice for leaders who find themselves in comparable circumstances (or may do so in the future).

A Question of Leadership also places an emphasis on an important but frequently overlooked element of corporate leadership and change initiatives: mental health. The book provides expert advice on managing the mental health of leaders and the teams who are operating within stressful, high-pressure environments. This is a timely and essential guide for any business leader looking for the most effective strategies and approaches when it comes to change initiatives, to ensure the continued livelihood and prosperity of their organization and their employees in times of crisis.