Chapter Leadership revisited : IN Book: Transformational Leadership and Organizational Maturity in the Digital Era

Abstract

In the context of profound and widespread global transformations, driven by emerging socio-economic patterns and accelerated by technological advancements, there is a pressing need to redefine the concept of leadership and to understand why effective leadership is essential for navigating socio-economic change. This work proposes both a theoretical framework and a practical approach to capturing the contemporary landscape of socio-economic transformation, with a particular focus on leadership. It introduces the author’s original model of transformational leadership, applicable at both the individual and organizational levels. The research models can serve as self-assessment tools for individuals and organizations seeking to align their leadership practices with externally validated measures. These tools aim to evaluate the extent to which leadership practices are truly transformational. In addition, they provide insights into digital, transformational, and organizational maturity, defined as the capacity to lead effectively in dynamic and rapidly evolving social and institutional environments. The book offers a comprehensive overview of contemporary scientific perspectives on leadership, guiding readers through the diversity of existing theories and frameworks. It also addresses the conceptual ambiguities and terminological inconsistencies that often hinder a clear understanding of leadership as a construct. The central argument of the book is that transformational leadership, underpinned by a high degree of organizational maturity, represents the most viable strategy for successfully navigating the ongoing socio-economic transformations driven by technological innovation.