Off the Rails
The role of the chief executive is to provide strategic direction and vision for an organization. In addition, the chief executive is responsible for ensuring that resources are available to support organizational goals. However, the chief executive cannot do everything alone and must delegate authority to other members of the organization. When the chief executive fails to provide adequate leadership, it can have a negative impact on the organization as a whole. Other members of the organization may be reluctant to take on responsibility, and morale may suffer. In addition, the lack of leadership from the chief executive can lead to a loss of direction and a decline in productivity. While other members of the organization can provide leadership, it is ultimately the responsibility of the chief executive to ensure that the organization is able to function effectively.
In a detention center, it is no different: the role of a chief executive is still to provide leadership and strategic direction. In doing so, the chief executive ensures that the facility meets its legal obligations, while also providing detainees with an environment that is safe and secure. The chief executive sets the tone for the entire center, and is responsible for ensuring that staff are properly trained and equipped to carry out their duties, unique to that place. Additionally, the chief executive oversees the budget and financial operations of the detention center, ensuring that it remains fiscally responsible. And, ultimately, the chief executive is responsible for the overall management of the facility and its staff, and must be able to effectively balance the need for both safety and security.
Constituents of the detention center include the...
…can become more effective in managing
police organizations and preventing crime.
The research on leadership described in Criminal Justice Organizations suggests that a detention center where leadership is lacking needs to change in several ways. First, the leaders need to be more effective communicators. They need to be able to share their vision for the organization and inspire others to buy into that vision. Second, the leaders need to be more decisive. They need to be able to make tough decisions and stand by them. Third, the leaders need to be more transparent. They need to be open and honest with others about what is happening within the organization. Finally, the leaders need to be more supportive. They need to show they care about their employees and are willing to help them succeed. By making these changes, the detention center can create a…
