Hard times call for more than simply gritted teeth. Public is delighted once again to be associated with the Ashridge Public Leadership Centre's annual essay competition - and this year we are looking to celebrate the many positive attributes of leadership and innovation from the public sector.
This is a great opportunity for public sector staff to step back from their day-to-day concerns and reflect on why their job matters - to them, to their organisation, and to society as a whole society.
This year we are giving a choice of topics. We're looking for incisive vignettes, of just 600 words, to illustrate one of two themes. We want you to give us some great examples of good public sector practice.
So please choose from either:
• Innovation in the public sector
Give us your ideas and examples of where the public sector is already leading the way in doing better for less. We know there is some great innovation out there, including, for instance, reducing crime by designing chairs in public spaces with integral bag hooks; or reducing the burden on A&E departments by designing beer glasses that don't break. Perhaps the public sector has something to teach the private sector in this sphere. We'd like to hear your examples of innovation in public services. What were the key ingredients of success? What was the project, how did it happen, and, above all, what was the outcome?
or
• Great role models
Hard times call for inspiring leaders. Who are the leaders in today's public sector who inspire you? We want you to nominate a colleague who has performed exceptionally well. What are the key characteristics of successful public sector leaders and managers? What effect do good leaders have on their staff - and on the public services they provide?
Whichever topic you choose, please ensure your writing is readable and jargon free, and keep your entry to 600 words.
Entrants may write up to three entries in each category. Entries will be anonymised for judging, and permission will be sought from nominated role models before any names are made public.
The closing date for entries is Friday 29 October and the essays will be judged by a distinguished panel of judges, including Sir Richard Mottram, Professor Sally Davies, David Gauke, MP for South West Hertfordshire, and Lord Chris Smith.
Winning entries will be published by Guardian Public in early 2011, and winners will be eligible for six free sessions with an Ashridge executive coach at the judges' discretion.
• The deadline for entries is Friday 29 October and they should be submitted either as an email or word attachment to:
Essay-Competition@ashridge.org.uk
From Bubb's Blog
From Whitehall Watch
