Using international case study material, this book examines how ideas of visionary leadership have been developed and discusses their applicability to the public sector. The book covers:

the tensions that can arise between administrative/bureaucratic traditions and the leadership styles required today

the relationship between political leadership and organizational leadership

different approaches that have been adopted by public service leaders in organizations around the globe and their level of success

the extent to which existing theories of leadership are appropriate for a new management context.

A welcome addition to the current literature, this book will be invaluable reading for students of public administration as well as practitioners and policy makers in the public services.