leadership concepts

Purpose: 

The purpose of this project is to apply leadership concepts to a crisis leadership situation and to make recommendations for a crisis-ready culture.

The key to doing well in this assignment is to use course materials from all seven weeks. While there is a focus on Week 7 content, students are expected to apply the concepts learned from weeks 1 through 6 as well. Moreover, students are expected to apply examples from the case scenario to concepts learned from the course materials. Students will not need to use course materials outside of those provided in this classroom, so use of any other course materials should be highly discouraged.

A Snapshot of the Case and the Underlying Issues:

This case focuses on a crisis that was created because of poor leadership decisions and behaviors. The decisions made by Higgins created the problem, but at the core of this problem was the poor leadership of Brown. Higgins made a decision to purchase genetically modified Echinacea for short-term gain. She made this decision without consulting with anyone. But the crisis could have been prevented by Brown. Brown demonstrated:

• the wrong leadership style in giving Higgins free rein
• low emotional intelligence by not demonstrating control of his emotions and not managing conflict well
• that he was not an Authentic leader, in that he didn’t clearly communicate the values most important to him and to Biotech (the core values). Knowing that the core values would have possibly allowed Higgins to reframe her decision making (in other words she would have understood sustainability and customer-centricity come before short term profits). Moreover, Brown did not take ownership of the problem – another sign of an unauthentic leader.

Finally, this case demonstrates what can happen when culture, structure, and strategy do not align. After working through these leadership issues, students will provide recommendations to make Biotech crisis-ready.

Skill Building: 

You are also completing this project to help you develop the skills of analysis, critical thinking, and writing a report. Writing is critical because in business it is important to convey information clearly and concisely and to develop a personal brand. Developing a personal brand is important because it is the ongoing process of establishing an image or impression in the minds of others especially those in positions above you. Having a strong personal brand can lead to opportunities that include promotions.

Skills:  Writing, Critical Thinking, Developing a Personal Brand, Situational Analysis, Writing a Report.

Outcomes Met With This Project:

• use leadership theories, assessment tools, and an understanding of the role of ethics, emotional intelligence, cultural intelligence, competencies, values, and attitudes to evaluate and enhance personal leadership skills
• assess the interactions between the external environment and within an organization to foster responsible and effective leadership and organizational practices
• Develop individual awareness, style and communication skills that enhance leadership skills
• Integrate and apply analytical principles and concepts of leadership to make strategic decisions.