ABSTRACT
This chapter explores definitions of academic leadership dating back to the early 1990s to the present day. It examines academic leadership in practice, from firstly, the perspectives of a VP and then secondly, a vice-chancellor. Ramsdens domains of academic leadership, offers a useful four quadrant framework for conceptualising the role. There are namely academic leadership, academic people, academic management and academic work. Middlehurst considers the similarities and differences between generic leadership and academic leadership, exploring the behaviours required. Gmelch focuses on transitions to leadership and what the term means for academics moving forward in their careers. The interplay of external and internal drivers, the institutional mission and strategy, and the availability of resources are all essential to nuancing the academic leadership style required to be an effective and successful vice-president (VP). Through greater agility and flexibility, alongside well-honed academic leadership capabilities, academic leaders can enable their staff to gain energy, confidence, and enthusiasm for whatever the future holds.
