Abstract
This article discusses the concept of the “knowledge executive” and its implications for leadership, education, and communication in an information-dependent society. It emphasizes how rapid technological change and the growing centrality of information have transformed leadership roles, requiring executives to be generalists capable of synthesizing diverse perspectives, managing ambiguity, and fostering collaboration. The discussion highlights lessons for executives, including the need for integrative thinking, participatory decision-making, and foresight in anticipating second-order consequences. For education, it underscores the importance of liberal arts training in developing problem-solving, ethical reasoning, cultural awareness, and global perspectives. Finally, the article identifies communication as an essential discipline for cultivating critical thinking, group interaction, media awareness, and leadership skills. It concludes that communication specialists are uniquely positioned to support the development of knowledge executives prepared to lead in increasingly complex environments.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Robert M.
(1987)
"Preparing for Change: What Is Learned from the Knowledge Executive?,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 62, Article 7.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol62/iss1/7
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