JLBC: Leadership

JLBC: Leadership

With the JLBC committed to operations, situations have arisen from which valuable leadership lessons have emerged. Our partners have had similar experiences and learned some valuable leadership lessons. JLBC Cadets, while a class is only deemed to be 'learned' after it has been subjected to rigorous analysis and actioned to cause enduring change, this section considers 'issues' raised that affect leadership and leave it to the reader to determine what emphasis they choose to place on them, and the inferences they wish to draw.

Much of the commentary on the performance of the Military on recent operations, particularly those in the Middle East, has highlighted the outstanding performance of our forces in challenging operational scenarios. The strengths of our leaders, referred to on several occasions in previous chapters, have contributed to this outcome. Specific issues addressed below include maintaining standards, delegating without losing operational control, ensuring that preparation is tailored to operational needs, and implementing mission command as intended.

Maintenance of standards. A recognized strength of the JLBC over many years is its junior leaders' quality. However, responsibility for the overall performance of units and formations remains with those individuals occupying command appointments. Commanders should ensure that they do more than rely on their orders and directives being carried out. The high standard expected of forces in combat should be similarly expected through all aspects of military employment. Leaders cannot predict their subordinates to suddenly 'switch viewpoints and have a difference of opinion. However, the JLBC leadership needs to overcome all adversity to achieve mission objectives.