Leadership

The new issue of ISO9001, due in 2015, is widely expected to include a clause on Leadership.  I've been pondering this today with one of my client's and have been reflecting on various businesses I worked in/for and the impact of the leaders involved.  One case comes readily to mind.  A business had a go-getting enthusiastic guy in charge of day to day operations.  He knew his market, his staff, his targets and he shared his passion and vision with his staff who were motivated and engaged in the business processes as a result.  He had 'Monday morning' meetings with employees where he praised them for their work.  Another company recognised his talents and poached him and what followed can best be described as silent management.  A brilliant strategist took charge and undoubtably knew what he wanted to achieve but he wasn't a people person and he just didn't inspire.  A similar scenario has come to mind more recently but in this case the brilliant guy wasn't replaced directly - the remaining management team decided to share out the role and as a result confusion reigned and the staff became disheartened.  SO I welcome the idea of a clause focussing on leadership - and the challenges that will bring!