Leadership in professional management consulting requires a multi-dimensional approach. Within the role, consultants need to be adept, confident and have credibility. Scenarios for consulting will typically be complex and involve building relationships with other senior leaders. Consultants may lead internal and/or external teams and work at board level.

Consultants must not only have a macro view of an organisation’s strategic context, they must also understand the impact of digital, technological and geo-political change.

The aim of this unit is to equip professional management consultants with an in-depth understanding of leadership within a consulting context and the strategies which may be used to optimise the way people are developed and led.

Understand the role of leadership in professional consulting

1.1 Critically appraise the role of leadership in providing purpose and direction to clients

1.2 Critique the application of leadership strategies in professional consulting

1.3 Critically reflect on how leadership styles can be adapted to respond to the challenge of delivering client-centric professional consulting