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Leadership principles – an approach to leadership at Linnaeus University

Linnaeus University’s mission is to work for a better world where knowledge grows. The leadership principles describe different approaches to the leadership role that help us move forward towards the university’s vision – to set knowledge in motion for a sustainable development.

Leadership is framed by regulations, guidelines, and legal provisions which provide part of the prerequisites for being a leader. In addition, there are some fundamental principles that are to permeate leadership at Linnaeus University, and these are described in this document.

The principles are one way of interpreting how leadership should be practiced and the aim is to make the path forward clearer to our leaders. The principles should be used as tools in everyday work when we act as leaders, when the university designs its internal leadership training, recruits and introduces new leaders, builds models and structures for leadership, and, not least, in the common dialogue to develop leadership.

Provide conditions and framework

As a leader at Linnaeus University, you create conditions for creativity. You have the courage to challenge existing norms and values. Together with your members of staff, you have the courage to try new ideas and see learning in both successful actions and failed ones. You encourage and support the realisation of creative ideas. You have a critical approach to how we conduct our activities and are curious to come up with new solutions.

Encourage responsibility and trust

As a leader at Linnaeus University, you show trust in colleagues and their competences, make the most of the their driving force and value their ambitions and will. You listen to opinions of your colleagues and take these into account in decision-making. By delegating responsibility, you help members of staff grow and contribute to Linnaeus University’s development.

Make room for dialogue

As a leader at Linnaeus University, you make sure that the organisation is designed for reaching stated goals. You ensure that there are meeting places that serve as resources for the part for which you are responsible, where discussions can be held and knowledge can be exchanged with respect and warmth. You contribute to creating the conditions for individual members of staff and the university as a whole to succeed.

See the full picture

As a leader at Linnaeus University, you see your role in relation to the university’s operations as a whole. The university needs many competences within research and education as well as within administration. Common for all leaders, regardless of area of responsibility, is that you take part and contribute to the university’s mission to gain new knowledge and provide education for people. You have an awareness of the needs of society and balance these against

Leadership principles - handout (pdf)