COMMENTARY FROM THE DI R ECTOR ,
ACQUISITION CAREER MANAGEMENT LTG WI L L I AM N. PHI L L I P S
Leader Development: SUCCESS IS A JOURNEY T
he U.S. Army is the Nation’s preeminent leadership expe- rience. This is true not only because of the responsibilities
and authorities we invest in our leaders while they are deployed, but also because of the investment we make in their devel- opment throughout their careers. Within the Army acquisition community, there are numerous opportunities to grow and take on positions of greater responsibility. It is important to be ready, to prepare for leadership by staying current with your studies and completing additional train- ing opportunities to add to your portfolio of accomplishments. In addition, through the years, I have compiled a list of leader- ship qualities that I would like to share with you.
The first and perhaps most obvious qual- ity of leadership is the need to have a vision. You must be able to see beyond daily tasks and problems and discern a world of possibilities and potential to take your organization to the next level of excellence. You must see what oth- ers do not or cannot, and you must be prepared to act on your vision to bring about change.
Next, you must have strength of purpose and belief in a cause that reaches out to
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others and makes them eager to follow. If change is to take place, leadership must empower a broad base of people to take action. Never underestimate the power of a trained and ready workforce.
In any leadership position, it is important to learn to work within the bureaucracy and to realize and effect change where nec- essary. The Army acquisition community is immersed in a series of improvements to procurement practices such as stream- lining requirements, better managing cost and schedule issues, integrating new tech- nologies before they are sent to theater, and working more closely with industry.
The Army’s series of Network Integra- tion Evaluations, for example, is helping to shape not only critical capabilities but also Army acquisition leaders by provid- ing fertile ground for sound leadership experiences in the new Agile Process. In addition, we are a full partner in the DOD’s Better Buying Power initiatives to become more efficient and effective. Our customers—Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and civilians, especially those on the frontlines of freedom—need your very best when it comes to realizing efficiencies.
As a leader, you will be pulled in many directions, so it is important to balance
your time. Focus downward and help the team you are building succeed. At the same time, focus upward to ensure that your senior leaders understand what your organization is doing and the way you are heading. The support you garner both inside and outside your organization will prove to be invaluable.
This brings me to another important point: Always remember to use your authority over others for construc- tive purposes. Treat your subordinates with respect—mentor them, help them improve their skills and advance, ease their hardships whenever possible. As a leader, you set the example for others.
Another essential quality of leadership is integrity. I cannot overemphasize this quality because without it, real leadership is never possible. It is essential to uphold the highest levels of integrity, honor, and character. We depend upon you to do exactly that in all situations.
Additionally, true leadership is the abil- ity to seek out and recognize the heroes of the day. These are people who make a difference in your organization. Let them know how much you appreciate their new idea, their dedication, their hard work, their team-building efforts, and so on.
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