2.3.2—Management and leadership

Syllabus
First assessment 2024
Objective
2.3.2
Level
SL

Management coordinates; leadership creates direction and commitment

Management plans, organises and controls resources to achieve objectives. Leadership influences people and gives direction, meaning and commitment—especially when the path is uncertain.

The roles overlap but are not identical. A manager may allocate tasks and monitor a process; a leader may build trust around a difficult change. Effective organisations need both reliable execution and willingness to adapt.

During a product recall, a manager coordinates stock isolation and customer records, while a leader explains the reason for the response and keeps staff focused despite reputational pressure.

A job title does not prove leadership. Judge the behaviour and the effect on coordination, motivation and shared action.