The Rise Of The Heretical Leader

Now is the time for heretical leadership in education. The era of artificial intelligence is upon us. Rigid policies, outdated curricula, and reliance on obsolete metrics fail students and employers. In a YouGov survey commissioned by Kingston University in the UK, 74% of British business leaders believe current graduates are unprepared for a world driven by AI. Industries demand adaptability and innovation. Heretical leaders are visionaries who reject complacency and drive transformation through the creative destruction of current systems.

The Ecocycle of Progress

In the Liberating Structures Ecocycle by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless, there are four stages of organisational progress and four accompanying leadership styles:

Stage 1 – Maturity

Managerial leaders stabilise the organisation by creating consistent systems and practices.

Stage 2 – Creative Destruction

Heretical leaders shine in this phase, dismantling outdated structures and making way for renewal.

Stage 3 – Gestation

Connector leaders promote collaboration and alignment, setting the groundwork for the next growth cycle.

Stage 4 – Birth

Entrepreneur leaders drive this phase, bringing fresh ideas to life and establishing new initiatives.

Heretical leaders are indispensable. They recognise when systems and processes have outlived their usefulness. They act decisively to clear the path for innovation. While other leadership styles focus on stability, collaboration, or growth, heretical leaders tackle stagnation head-on, ensuring outdated norms don’t trap institutions. Their work is the catalyst that propels organisations back into a state of renewal and relevance.

What Makes a Heretical Leader Essential?

Heretical leaders thrive during times of creative destruction, the phase when entrenched systems are dismantled to make way for growth. They combine courage, empathy, and strategic thinking to reimagine education’s potential. Here’s what sets them apart:

• Visionary Thinking: They chart bold, unconventional paths toward progress.
• Courage to Act: Heretical leaders embrace risks to overcome resistance and inertia.
• Relentless Curiosity: They challenge assumptions and explore alternatives.
• Empathy for Stakeholders: They understand that transformation is deeply personal.
• Strategic Disruption: Their calculated actions ensure systemic improvement.

Heretical leaders stand out because they envision new possibilities where others see limitations. They embrace the discomfort of change, knowing that growth demands it.

The Heretical Leader’s Toolbox

Driving transformative change requires the right strategies and tools. Heretical leaders use a well-equipped toolbox to execute their vision effectively:

• Mapping: Heretical leaders audit practices to identify what to end, evolve, or introduce.
• Coalitions: They rally educators, students, and industry partners to create a united vision for change. They ensure a holistic approach to transformation.
• Storytelling: Heretical leaders craft compelling narratives to engage stakeholders emotionally and intellectually, making the case for change resonate on multiple levels.
• Pilots: Starting small ensures low-risk innovation, providing proof of concept before scaling. This approach promotes confidence and minimises resistance.
• Empowerment: Heretical leaders foster collaboration and shared ownership to sustain change.

These tools are the foundation of sustainable and meaningful progress.

Resistance to Change

Resistance is inevitable but surmountable. Heretical leaders understand that change can be unsettling and tackle it with empathy and strategy. They do this through:

• Acknowledgment of Emotions: They validate concerns while demonstrating the urgency of progress. Recognizing stakeholders’ fears and honouring their contributions builds trust.
• Clear Communication: Transparency builds trust and reduces fear of the unknown. By articulating the benefits of change clearly, heretical leaders provide a roadmap for the future.
• Stakeholder Engagement: When individuals feel heard, they’re more likely to support change.
• Celebrating Wins: Early successes inspire confidence and momentum. Highlighting small victories shows that transformation is achievable and beneficial.

This empathetic approach diffuses resistance and fosters a sense of shared purpose.

The Leadership Balance

Heretical leaders thrive in a balanced leadership team, working alongside Connectors, Entrepreneurs, and Managers. Together, these roles create a dynamic ecosystem for growth and renewal. While heretical leaders challenge norms and push boundaries, other leadership styles provide stability and continuity, ensuring that innovation doesn’t become chaos.

Broader Impact

The mission of a heretical leader in education is to prepare students to thrive in a constantly changing world. They set a precedent for other educational sectors, proving that bold, visionary leadership can drive success on multiple levels. Heretical leadership promotes equity by challenging traditional barriers that limit access to quality education. By questioning and dismantling outdated systems, they create more inclusive environments where all students have the opportunity to succeed.

Heretical leadership is about courage, curiosity, and a relentless drive for progress. The challenges facing further education demand leaders who won’t just adapt to change but actively shape it. By embracing the tools and mindset of a heretical leader, you can transform your institution into a beacon of innovation and opportunity.

As the need for change in education grows in this age of AI, the role of heretical leaders will become essential. These disruptors should not be lone revolutionaries. They are part of a broader movement toward renewal and innovation. By fostering collaboration and embracing empathy, they ensure that institutions are prepared to meet the demands of tomorrow.

This book draws upon themes from Dan Fitzpatrick’s new book ‘Infinite Education: The Four-Step Strategy For Leading Change In The Age Of Artificial Intelligence’ out on January 6, 2025. Find out more at infiniteeducation.ai