ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the author started out in the education field as a dual professional, combining research into learning, teaching, and educational development in higher education (HE) with gender and international development consultancy work for governments and international organisations. Effective leadership is about setting a direction and aligning and motivating people to the direction for the desired change. It also involves creating a culture of leadership since leadership is distributed, situational, and contingent. In turbulent times for HE, effective leadership in the field of education requires leaders to be adept in anticipating, responding to, and navigating change while guiding people through. Effective leadership is therefore required around inclusivity, student welfare, protecting free speech, providing value for money, and keeping up with technological advancements. ‘Know thyself’ is an important axiom for leaders. There are many approaches to leadership, leadership styles, and leadership characteristics or elements, so it important to be self-aware.
