Speaking in a wide-ranging interview from education development to leadership to management, Chairman, CEG Education Holdings Dr. Jagath Alwis expressed his views on leadership and goal setting.
Excerpts from the interview:
Q: What is your perception of leadership?
Business leaders should possess a clear view of the vision and mission of the organization which he/she should pass on to all levels of the team and develop a strategic plan that encapsulates all stakeholders. A leader can be identified as one who takes the team in the strategic direction of the company. Building his team and ensuring smooth teamwork to reach their organizational goals and ensuring the strategic direction is on track, are among the main tasks of a good leader.
Q: How do you set organizational goals?
Once I am clear with the vision and mission, I get strategic direction from the Board, considering all stakeholders to set the organizational goals of the company. I have dialogue with all senior managers when setting company goals covering key areas. My role is largely monitoring and coordinating with all stakeholders. We may change course mid-way through an academic year and may have to reset our goals. Innovation play a major role when setting up goals and I always encourage staff members at all level to think out of the box.
