‘Leadership roles’ within higher education are often complex and can be undertaken differently across the organisation. Nonetheless, a more common understanding of leadership is the ability to take charge, inspire, and lead a collective group in a particular direction, focusing upon the task and [Page 947]activities rather than solely on the position within the organisation. Leadership can also entail the ability to lead by example, create a sense of community, and direct individuals charismatically towards a collective end goal.

When viewed within the scope of higher education, leadership can take the forms of research, teaching, and general management. As such leadership in higher education is not only inherently complex, but these roles can be applied simultaneously and not necessarily with equal priority. This entry examines the ...