Collective Leadership

Owned by Darlene Edgar
Feb 11, 2024
2 min read

Caulfield, J. L., & Brenner, E. F. (2020). Resolving complex community problems: Applying collective leadership and Kotter’s change model to wicked problems within social system networks. Nonprofit Management & Leadership, 30(3), 509–524. https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&AuthType=sso&db=bth&AN=1419

  • Collective Leadership in Resolving Complex Social Problems:

    • In the nonprofit sector, collective leadership is vital for addressing complex social and cultural issues. It involves groups of individuals working together toward a shared goal within social networks characterized by shared power, trust, inclusivity, diverse perspectives, and skill sets.

  • Case Study: Teen Pregnancy in Milwaukee:

    • The study focuses on reducing teen pregnancies in Milwaukee using collective leadership and Kotter's change model. Beginning in 2006 with the goal of a 46% reduction in teen births for ages 15 to 17, the initiative surpassed expectations, achieving a 50% decrease by 2013 and over 65% by 2015, exceeding the national decrease during the same period.

  • Distinct Streams of Collective Leadership:

    • Four collective leadership streams worked together: shared leadership, executive consultations, assuming responsibilities for teams within community networks, and spreading leadership across levels over time. This approach encouraged participation, innovation, and collaboration across diverse groups to address complex problems effectively.

  • Social Networks and Systems Thinking:

    • Understanding between-group interdependencies within social networks is crucial for addressing complex problems within interconnected systems. Systems thinking emphasizes optimizing relationships between elements to achieve systemic goals and has been effective in implementing and sustaining major change.

  • Wicked Problems and Complexity:

    • Wicked problems, complex social or cultural issues resistant to resolution, present challenges due to incomplete knowledge, diverse opinions, economic barriers, and interconnectedness with similar problems. Their dynamic nature and unpredictable human behavior contribute to their complexity.

  • Kotter's Change Model:

    • Kotter's model emphasizes the need for leadership to create organizations that adapt to changing circumstances. It involves gaining commitment for change, communicating a compelling vision, empowering action, generating short-term wins, consolidating change, and anchoring new approaches in the culture.

  • Success Factors and Replicability:

    • Success factors for the Milwaukee initiative included a realistic timeframe, evidence-based strategies, cultural sensitivity, persistent media campaigns, measurable goals, financial resources, and proven change strategies. Replicating such initiatives requires community engagement, financial resources, stakeholder unity, and ongoing funding support.