This module equips you with the critical thinking and assessment skills necessary to engage with the leadership and strategic management theoretical literature.  The module will draw on a range of academic research in leadership to develop your understanding of different theoretical perspectives of complex managerial concepts.  Furthermore, through academic research you will explore a range of strategic and operational questions reflecting on best practice and academic research in relationship to decision making.

As a way to bring application of theory to practice there will be a reflective, action learning approach in this module where you will become aware of your values and purpose as a leader.  You will learn how your personal development needs influence your leadership style. You will also understand the importance of leadership for shaping, defining and communicating an organisation’s purpose, vision, mission, culture and values.  Moreover, you will learn how strategic leaders develop the direction of the organisation.

You will come to understand the role of leaders in relationship to boards and organisational governance, strategic planning, financial sustainability and accountability, managing resources, stakeholder engagement and drivers for continuous improvement both in terms of the academic research and professional practice.  The module will also explore the importance of ethical leadership, role modelling, personal presence, mental toughness, resilience and reflective practice as a leader.

Key principles and theories of strategic leadership and management will come alive in this module through guest speakers who will share their leadership journeys with you.  These lectures are intended to cover the theories of strategic leadership and application such as value-driven leadership, leading with integrity, entrepreneurial leadership, authentic leadership and cross-cultural leadership as examples.  You will be challenged to think critically about these various approaches and paradigms as they apply to healthcare in practice. 