THE LEADERSHIP QUALITIES OF TOWN/PARISH CLERKS PRESENTATION By TRACEY WEAVER July 2012 Source: Leadership Quotes, 2011

Agenda Reason for study Dissertation aims & objectives Literature review Hypotheses and Research Methodology Results Conclusion/Recommendations Questions

Reasons for Study Personal development Understanding the leadership function in the clerks role Guidance and standardisation

What is Leadership? Northouse (2003: 3) defines leadership as “a process whereby an individual influences a group of individuals to achieve a common goal”

Dissertation Aims & Objectives Aim – To establish that leadership is a recognised function in the role of a town/parish clerk. Objectives – Research leadership theories Leadership qualities in the role of a clerk Leadership resources To provide guidance

Literature Review Leadership Role of the town/parish clerk Leadership theories and styles “leaders and followers make each other advance to a higher level of moral and motivation." (Burns: 1978). Servant-leadership vs Leadership

“It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead. That person is sharply different from one who is leader first, perhaps because of the need to assuage an unusual power drive or to acquire material possessions…The leader-first and the servant-first are two extreme types. Between them there are shadings and blends that are part of the infinite variety of human nature.” (Greenleaf, 1970).

Hypotheses “Town/parish clerks have a servant-leadership role within town/parish councils”

Research Questions The importance of leadership in the role of the clerk Is leadership in the role of the clerk recognised by councils Leadership qualities of the clerk Is there a lack of resources

Research Methodology Secondary research Primary research - Quantitative questionnaire - Qualitative interviews - Comparison study of clerks job descriptions

10.00% 6.25% 11.25% 20.00% 25.00% 0% 8.75% 18.75% Map showing the Geographical Representation of Responses from each District in Devon. A total of 81 response were received out 357. Devon County Council, 2011 Initial Research Results

Do you think leadership is important in the role of a town/parish clerk? Is leadership mentioned in your job description?

“The Clerk has great influence of knowledge and time spent and if used with tact Members will be influenced.” (Respondent No. 4). “Sometimes it is necessary to lead and guide the Parish Council to achieve the goals they have set.” (Respondent No. 9). “The council leads; I try to influence them to do the right thing efficiently, but not by leading.” (Respondent No. 67). “As the 'expert' resource to the Council and the responsible officer there are many instances where you need to steer/guide/lead on policy/projects/planning etc and have the long term vision too.” (Respondent No. 23). Importance of Leadership

Which of the following qualities do you think makes a good leader?

Do you think there are enough resources on leadership to help town/parish clerks?

Conclusion/Recommendations Standardised job description. leadership programmes to include the first tier of local government. Specific training on leadership within the sector The SLCC, ILCM, UOG and NALC to continue further studies including: - is leadership viable and relevant to all P&T clerks. - do elected members recognise leadership within the P&T clerk’s role. - should there be more training on leadership available to local councils.

Discussion/Questions Source: Cheshire Home Choice, 2011

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