Complexity Leadership Theory: A Conceptual Model for Christian Higher Education

Abstract

Christian higher education is under pressure to thrive in the social, political, financial, and educational environments. Resources are limited and budgetary constraints force employees to do more with fewer resources. The danger is that morale from the employees decrease, which flows through to student success and satisfaction. Complexity Leadership Theory (CLT) can be a leadership framework to understand how relationships between employees influence organizational outcomes and vice versa, thereby improving effectiveness and efficiency of available resources. The proposed conceptual model of CLT can be used as a framework to improve structures, decision-making and resource management in higher educational institutions.