Third Sector in danger from lack of leadership development

David Woods, 29 January 2010

Charities and not for profit organisations are in danger of neglecting leadership potential, as they chase a shrinking funding pool, a director of a major initiative on social leadership, has claimed.

Dame Mary Marsh, director of the Clore Social Leadership Programme,blelieves while the challenges in the not for profit and charity sectors are significant, a lack of planned and supported development opportunities will hamper third sector leadership and therefore its capacity to deal with a rapidly changing environment.

She said: "There is a real gap in the need for sustained and holistic development of senior people in the Third Sector and in depth opportunities to acquire new skills.

"Many charities are so focused in delivering benefits to their constituents, they are unable to focus on the needs of their leaders to develop, which has potentially significant consequences for organisations which will be looking at delivering services in the community."

Andrew Mayo, President of the HR Society said: "The Third Sector needs really effective leadership and much of this can be provided by experienced leaders from the private and public sectors. But this has to be in parallel with internal development planning. This Forum is a great opportunity to learn about and debate these challenges."

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jon summerson - 29 January 2010

Whilst I agree with some of the issues raised in this article, I can't help but feel that the article does not acknowledge and reflect those charities that are investing in their leadership strategies which are critical for current and future challenges.

Leaders in the third sector are faced with a complex world and are expected to deliver more with less whilst balancing their charitable purpose with business needs. With this in mind I think public and private sector leaders can learn a lot from charity leaders as most of the third sector leaders have come from the private and public sectors anyway.