ABSTRACT
This chapter summarises the material covered across this book to crystallise conceptions of conservation leadership. Research published in 2021 examined the relative importance of a wide range of leadership practices as explored in this book. The relative importance of these practices was considered by a sample of 111 diverse conservation professionals from across the globe through an online survey. All respondents were men and women across a range of ages and experience, and from a host of nationalities, actively working in a variety of areas of conservation (within non-governmental organisations, government, research institutions, multi-agency projects, and commercial organisations). The subsequent Six-Factor Model of Conservation Leadership presents the areas of competence needed by contemporary leaders in conservation. Many aspects of the model challenge traditional notions of leadership, yet resonate strongly with the themes presented in this book. Most importantly, the competencies address the challenges faced in contemporary conservation work. Novel aspects in the model include (1) an emphasis on knowledge of operational work, (2) authentic, dignified interactions with people (staff, partners, and communities), and (3) a leaders’ primary focus on the needs of ecosystems and species of concern. The six-factor model provides a curriculum for leadership development of conservation professionals.
