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Roberts, Jane
(2021).
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21954/ou.ro.00013d41
Abstract
Drawing on two empirical research projects - an exploration of the experience of losing elected political office and of the mayoral leadership of the new English combined authorities - this paper uses attachment theory to understand the path from political leadership and the leadership of place from a multidisciplinary perspective. In the first study, in-depth interviews with former Westminster MPs and leaders of major councils in England, their partners, and with current politicians demonstrate the problematic nature of leaving elected political office for many with implications not only for the individuals involved but for their partners, families, employers, wider civic society and, the paper goes on to argue, for representative democracy. In the second study, on the basis of interviews conducted with senior figures in local and central government and with other informed commentators, a preliminary analysis of the combined authorities’ political leadership is offered. The focus is on the early leadership of the metro-mayors from the perspective of the leadership of place - how place was construed and how leadership of place was being exercised - within the wider context of local governance in England. It argues that public policy and the literature on political leadership could usefully recognize the power of place in the exercise of leadership. The thread underlying both studies is that insights from attachment theory can helpfully inform the theory and practice of political leadership, recognising the bonds that individuals can form with an elected political leadership role and with place. Drawing on literature from a range of disciplines, the paper offers a highly innovative approach to the theory and practice of political and place leadership.
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
