The intricacies of public sector leadership remain less understood compared to those in the private sector, despite public leaders overseeing a significant portion of the global workforce and economic output. A recent study by McKinsey sought to bridge this knowledge gap by analyzing the characteristics and behaviors of exemplary public service leaders through extensive surveys and interviews. This research draws insights from over 750 senior leaders and in-depth dialogues with more than 60 seasoned public sector executives.

The Complexity of Public Sector Leadership

While public sector leaders share certain admirable qualities with their private sector counterparts, the challenging political landscapes they navigate necessitate a distinct skill set. As one participant noted, public leaders must be capable of executing tasks akin to corporate executives but often under much more challenging circumstances.

Survey findings reveal that a substantial majority of public leaders encounter tighter budget constraints and express difficulty in attracting or retaining talent. Many foresee an era of significant disruption ahead, emphasizing the need for adaptability in their leadership approaches.

Defining Traits of Outstanding Public Sector Leaders

Character, values, and integrity emerged as pivotal traits among effective public sector leaders. As highlighted by an interviewee, “Your integrity and ethics are the core of being in the public service.” Building upon this foundation are two essential traits: a clear direction and an ability to navigate ambiguity while driving results.

Six Essential Practices of Public Sector Leadership

Our research identified six core practices that are indicative of outstanding performance in public sector leadership:

1. Set the Direction

   The foremost practice among successful public sector leaders is establishing a clear direction. Effective leaders define a purposeful vision and translate it into actionable strategies, ensuring that their objectives resonate with stakeholders. They are adept at mobilizing resources creatively, especially in environments characterized by budget constraints.

2. Mobilize Through Leaders

   Strategic team composition is vital for public leaders. They prioritize building teams that share a commitment to their mission, fostering a culture of accountability and ownership. This adaptability is crucial for navigating existing personnel and operational structures.

3. Align the Organization

   The most effective leaders treat organizational culture and employee engagement as critical elements of performance. They actively shape and model the desired culture, build frameworks for success, and ensure that the right talent is matched to create maximum impact.

4. Navigate the Government

   Accomplished leaders possess a deep understanding of the political landscape, enabling them to support the agenda of their heads of institutions. They build coalitions across departments, recognizing the necessity of collaborative solutions in the face of complex governance challenges.

5. Cocreate with Stakeholders

   Public sector leaders effectively engage with external stakeholders, fostering a collaborative approach to policy development. By prioritizing citizen satisfaction and actively listening to diverse perspectives, they strengthen the efficacy of public services.

6. Manage Personal Effectiveness

   Continuous self-improvement is essential for public leaders to manage the extensive demands associated with their roles. Defining one’s leadership presence, surrounding oneself with a capable team, and managing personal energy effectively are key to sustaining performance.

Conclusion

Public sector leaders are tasked with navigating a complex landscape while striving to achieve meaningful outcomes. The combination of character, purpose, and resilience not only drives their effectiveness but also reinforces the honor associated with public service. As highlighted throughout this research, the ongoing commitment to excellence in leadership practices is essential for delivering impactful governance.