Leadership in a volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous context: Some foundational considerations
What is it about?
This paper explores the characteristics of VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity) conditions and draws out some foundational considerations of what these imply for leadership. It discusses leader behaviours, attributes and values that are likely to be especially salient for leaders operating a VUCA context, as well as considering what purpose can usefully inform leadership in such an environment. The discussion pays heed to issues of both leader effectiveness and ethics in exploring ideas about how leaders can lead in such challenging contexts.
Why is it important?
VUCA conditions are increasingly influential features of our contemporary world. This context poses particular challenges for leadership and established models - such as transformational leadership, authentic leadership, visionary leadership and charismatic leadership - were not designed with such conditions in mind. This can leave leaders searching for what will help them in grappling with the challenges that come with a VUCA context - a need which this paper seeks to address.