MaY 2024

result

The leadership, influence, and authority conundrum

Driving strategic alignment

Dealing with the communications black hole

Cultivating culture and providing psychological safety

Conclusion: traps, challenges, and learning points

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The Great Connector

How the chief of staff forges alignment in organisations.

Saïd Business School, University of Oxford Executive Education Programme, November 2023.

A Special Report commissioned by The Chief of Staff Association.

Contents

Introduction

Trent Smyth AM, CEO of The Chief of Staff Association, reflects on the programme and examines how the 2023 State of the Industry Report shaped its structure.

The Leadership, Influence, and Authority Conundrum

Thinking of leadership as a phenomenon or process sheds a new light on the chief of staff role.

Driving Strategic Alignment

The importance of reinforcing the link between purpose and strategy cannot be ignored.

Dealing with the Communications Black Hole

In an age of remote working, effective communication with staff in the 'middle' of an organisation is more vital than ever.

Cultivating Culture and Providing Psychological Safety

An openness to understanding different types of organisational subcultures is a key strength of a chief of staff.

Conclusion: Traps, Challenges, and Learning Points

Purpose, connection, alignment and relationships: how can these elements shape the development of a chief of staff?