'Leadership in a Turbulent Era'

This timely book explores the demand for leadership in today’s turbulent world. Based on a wealth of academic research, it offers insights and tools that help understand what turbulence does to leaders and their organizations, and how leadership can be effective.

Harry Garretsen and Janka Stoker define turbulence as a multi-level phenomenon affecting both societies and organizations, proposing ways in which leaders can navigate through.
Part 1 of the book sets the scene by connecting our turbulent times with leadership, and by addressing the main features of this era - be it various acute crises or more gradual but fundamental structural changes. The first part of the book also shows how leaders are affected by turbulence, and how they can effectively guide organizations and societies through unprecedented upheavals. Based on these state-of-the-art insights, in part 2 renowned academic experts provide guidance into the behaviors, mindsets, and practices effective leaders need to foster resilience, vision, and identity in turbulent contexts.

Leadership in a Turbulent Era is an essential toolkit for students and academics in
leadership, organizational behavior and strategic management. Its focus on the combination of research and practice will also greatly benefit business and public leaders, management consultants and human resources professionals.

Reactions

‘In an era of unprecedented turbulence, Garretsen and Stoker reveal how leadership is both a cause and consequence of uncertainty. Drawing on lessons from the past and insights for the future, this book offers a multi-level perspective — equipping leaders with the tools to navigate unpredictability with confidence. Readers will leave both reassured in their instincts and challenged to rethink common leadership assumptions. A must-read for anyone interested in how to lead through complexity and change.’

– Jennifer Jordan, IMD Business School, Switzerland

‘Even great leaders can fall flat on their faces at times, but their strength lies in learning from those experiences. This book is a must-read for anyone aiming to grow and excel in leadership.’

– Dimitri de Vreeze, CEO of DSM-Firmenich

‘Leadership is one of the most important aspects of human social organization. It is also relatively easy to define its essence. And yet, leadership is, to put it mildly, contested terrain. The increasing societal turbulence that has characterized the last few decades has led to calls for more leadership — but also calls for less. Contemporary discussions often don’t clarify where more (or less) leadership is required, and who should exercise what kind of leadership. Enter Harry Garretsen and Janka Stoker’s new edited volume. Across 13 chapters, including a highly clarifying introduction, a number of authors shine new light on leadership in the context of today’s societal turbulence, debunking fashionable myths and offering new compelling insights. Highly recommended!’

– Nicolai J Foss, Copenhagen Business School, Denmark

‘Puts front and center the critical but neglected role that context plays in leadership dynamics by clearly articulating how turbulence poses both threats and opportunities for leaders.’

– Gary Johns, University of British Columbia, Canada