Not enough cooks

THEODORE ROOSEVELT once made an important distinction between a leader and a boss: a leader leads, while a boss drives. It’s a conundrum often seen in business, politics and indeed sport. 

The retirement in recent weeks of former England cricket captain Alistair Cook from international play has once again raised questions about leadership in the national team. Cook won four Ashes series – two as captain – and broke numerous records that included England’s highest ever run-scorer and leading century-maker, his 32 being way ahead of the next highest 23. Few would argue that Cook led from the front and inspired his team. His Test successor, Joe Root, has done a fine job so far, but his reluctance over the past year to bat in the most important No.3 position - despite having the confidence of team mates, selectors and former captains - has inevitably questioned the extent of his hands-on approach.

UK political leadership across the spectrum continues to be questioned in these challenging times. Perhaps senior politicians, including recent Prime Ministers, are too CEO-like in their approach, managing resources with varying degrees of success, yet failing to lead and inspire. Whether in sport, business or government, overcoming challenges and emerging in better shape requires teamwork, unity and support from those not in charge. Sound management can preserve the status quo and avert disasters, but progress in building lasting value to weather future storms requires impactful, inspirational leadership.