"A balancing act": host leadership as a model for the police force. Issue 3 (29th April 2016) - McKergow, Mark
Abstract : Purpose: This paper aims to explore a new way of thinking about leadership within the police force, moving away from the metaphor of the "hero" and focusing on the idea of a "host" leader. Design/methodology/approach: This paper uses the College of Policing Leadership Review (2015) to examine current approaches to leadership within the police force and considers how host leadership methods could benefit police at all levels. Findings: There is a long-term challenge for the police force, as initial selection tends to test for heroic skills, whereas engagement and consensus building then become more important. As the need for more team-based, engaging approaches continues to drive leadership thinking in the UK's police service, populating the service with individuals who are adept at drawing out the best in their teams, without treating them as foot soldiers, is crucial. Originality/value: This paper is an original piece of research from Dr McKergow and Mr Miller.