Public & Private Leadership
Goal Statement: “We will expect and support capable leaders who govern and manage responsibly thereby earning our residents’ trust. In addition, we will aggressively develop the next generation of leaders who are capable, visionary, and ethical.”
Successful communities have successful leaders. Strong leadership – in the public, private, and non-profit sectors – will be critical to the successful implementation of Blueprint Birmingham.
One of the greatest challenges facing the Birmingham region is the fragmentation of government. With over 90 government entities and a history of leadership silos, the region must develop a renewed spirit of collaboration and cooperation. Regional collaboration is frequently discussed in the region but rarely acted upon. Positive structures such as the Regional Growth Alliance have faded; as a result, the region has lost momentum as quickly as it has been built. Blueprint Birmingham will only reach its potential if the region is able to formally bring business, government, and civic leadership together as equal partners in addressing matters of regional significance.
Community input participants also frequently cited the need to develop strong, ethical leaders that could manage responsible government. Increasing resident trust in elected and public agency leadership will be critical. Further, the Birmingham region will need to aggressively develop the next generation of leaders that are capable, visionary, and ethical.
The Birmingham region must elevate the quality of its leadership structure to support the vision that is shared by its residents.