Middle management leadership development through action learning

Authors: Bob Dick

Contact Details: Bob Dick

Keywords: action learning, project teams, middle management, leadership development, change skills

Abstract

This paper describes an action learning program used to improve the ability of managers, especially middle managers, to lead more effectively during times of rapid change. The program consisted of three major vehicles for developing leadership capability. In a weekly middle management forum, managers met to choose projects that deserved attention. For chosen projects, the same middle managers then set up a number of small action learning teams staffed by volunteer middle managers. Associated workshops provided ?just in time? concepts and skills when project team members requested them. Middle managers are the people who carry much of the burden of keeping workface officers informed and involved in change. With some top management support, they were therefore the main participants in the workshops and the project teams. A final section of the paper reflects on the outcomes of the program and the features that contributed to its effectiveness.

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