The authors argue that consultants are of two types: self‐promoting gurus and educators. Gurus that pontificate and promote their proprietary problem solving techniques do not educate their clients. They promote maxims that define rules of behavior but do not increase the competence of...

Purpose – The paper aims to analyze how the best leaders articulate a crucial issue that contains trade‐offs and risk and then blaze a new path for their group or organization. This is the “art” of dilemma management: the ability to address the shifting needs, drivers and opportunities...

Purpose – This paper aims to show how a common aspect of complex problems is that they often contain some form of paradox. By addressing the inherent paradox, decision‐makers can better understand and solve complex problems. Design/methodology/approach – The paper identifies nine paradoxes...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to share the key findings of a program of change at global metals/manufacturing group Luvata, and its impact on leadership, motivational and communications strategy. Luvata's story involves the development of a new global brand based on the acquisition of...

At one time or another, every successful executive has observed or been part of a group that was dedicated to solving an impossible problem or defeating an unbeatable foe. Such groups are usually vital, absorbing, full of debate and laughter ‐ and very hard work. They are almost never...

When Eastman Kodak decided to change from a traditional organization aligned by function to a focus on customers and corporate success, it recognized the fact that teams outperform individuals. At a recent Management Summit conference held in London, Henri‐Dominique Petit, vice‐president and...

Reports on a project by the Ocean Group which was analysed by Ashridge Management Research Group. The project covered processes dealing with the definition and measurement of competences required to make an effective senior manager. The competences do not stand alone but are supported by being...