Leadership Pathways Enabling Academics to Develop Into Middle-Level Academic Leaders: Evidence From Chinese Academics

• In Event: Examining Diverse Perspectives in Policy

Abstract

The aim of the study is to investigate the leadership pathway from academics to middle academic leaders in Chinese universities. Through purposeful and snowball sampling, 21 semi-structured interviews were conducted with academics from “985 universities” and “211 universities.” The research findings indicate that advancing to middle leadership positions requires either achieving academic excellence through individual efforts or securing patronage from formal leaders. Additionally, management experience, often conferred by formal leaders, is essential. The pathway from an academic to an academic leader takes place within a closed system. It is further governed by merit-based patronage and characterized by domination and factional conflicts.

Author

• Ling Wang, University of Hong Kong