Leadership structure is adaptable

  • Published
  • By Maj. Doug Hickey
  • 14th Force Support Squadron Commander

The topic of “leadership” is nothing new to the military environment, rather its basic structure is the foundation of success in various arenas. As creatures of habit, we tend to follow the typical hierarchical arrangement focused on lines of authority, communication, rights and duties of an organization.

 This approach seems to be a pretty standard template, however, subjectivity must come into play in terms of how leadership is demonstrated and cultivated in the organization by individual leaders at all levels in response to the multitude of variables faced on a daily basis.

 I am a firm believer that things do need structure, but will also note that we need to be adaptable and willing to change in order to make improvements and achieve success.  Status quo is no longer something viewed as acceptable in the business industry. We, in the Force Support Squadron, a customer service business, are experiencing this necessity for change first hand in the form of a Force Support Squadron restructure across the Air Force which is likely unknown to other career fields. As part of this process, we are moving from a current structure having five flights to a flatter structure of nine distinct flights with the intent of providing both additional leadership and career development opportunities to the military and civilian workforces and removing unnecessary layers of management.

 According to Forbes Magazine studies, this move to a more horizontal structure has proven to increase transparency across all aspects of organizations, tear down “structural” walls, help streamline communication and collaboration within the workplace, empower staff, and improve networking.  

 Subjectivity comes into play when leaders exercise their right to determine when command and control, teamwork, and change are necessary. In essence, we must come to terms with the fact that the way we work is changing and be willing to take risks and challenge outdated ways of doing things.

 In closing, some form of structure is key to stability is all aspects of life, but we cannot be blind to the fact that change is also necessary. The world is changing around us. Embrace it and enjoy the ride.