Description
This book demonstrates alternative ways of leading sustainable organizations. It identifies 19 criteria for sustainable leadership practices that can be found in globally successful enterprises such as Allianz, BMW, Munich Reinsurance, Nokia, Novartis, and Porsche. Sustainable principles include promoting ethical behavior, long-term thinking and innovation, and valuing employees and other stakeholders such as the community, the environment and future generations. The author presents concrete examples of leadership from 28 interesting case studies to illustrate the many different ways in which sustainable leadership principles can be implemented. The book concludes that shifting to sustainable leadership practices may appear difficult for enterprises based in the USA, UK and Australia, but is essential for the long-term survival of these firms. Indeed, several well-known businesses from these countries have already adopted sustainable leadership principles, including Colgate-Palmolive, Continental Airlines, HSBC, IBM, Marriott, Nordstrom and SAS.
By highlighting a dramatically different approach to leadership which can prove financially, socially and environmentally successful, this book will have a great appeal to scholars and students with an interest in leadership, strategy, international management and organisational studies. It will also be a valuable and practical aid for managers and consultants looking for new directions and ways of running their businesses.
About the Author
Gayle C. Avery, Professor of Management, Macquarie Graduate School of Management, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
Reviews
'Leadership for Sustainable Futures presents arguments against the prevailing Anglo/US philosophy which puts short-term interest over sustainable development, values shareholders over other stakeholders, and seeks profits at the expense of the environment and society. In China, we recognise that sustainable development, in economic, social and environmental terms, is vitally important for the future of the country. Chinese leaders are set to adopt 'the scientific approach to development' and commit themselves to build a 'harmonious society', which promises a more equal distribution of wealth, as well as greater emphasis on the protection of the environment. The very key is to "put people first" - a viewpoint that is argued so cogently in your book Leadership for Sustainable Futures. I firmly believe that your book will be invaluable for Chinese enterprises seeking to adopt an approach to doing business which leads to sustainable growth.' -- Dr Qin Xiao, Chairman, China Merchants Group (from foreword of the Chinese translation of the book)
'A fascinating book with a provocative thesis and numerous case studies of companies.' -- Business Ethics
'This is a scholarly but readable book that challenges much of what we take for granted about management in the world today. . .' -- Harvard Business School Working Knowledge Papers
'GL recommends this book to business leaders. We really welcomed Gayle Avery's discussion about how adopting an overall philosophy directs the decisions that companies make, that sustainability isn't a one-off event but a long term approach. Her well-thought out cases provide a valuable insight to alternative solutions such companies find when faced with challenges such as a drop in orders or changing skill demands.' -- The Gallon Environment Letter, Canadian Institute for Business and the Environment
Book Information
ISBN 9781847200570
Author Gayle C. Avery
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd
Publisher Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd
