Strategic Management of Higher Education Institutions in a European Context

Abstract

This chapter explores the strategic management of European universities and aims to provide an overall picture of the focus of contemporary strategic research. Twenty-five articles are examined using the public sector strategic research framework. The review provides a fragmented and multidimensional picture of the strategic management and leadership of universities. It can be viewed from several different perspectives, and therefore, the emphases are also different. Additionally, this is a challenge for strategic leadership when considering strategic choices in the higher education sector. This literature review suggests that the changing environment of the higher education sector highlights the need for new processes and frameworks for universities. Despite comprehensive strategy work, higher education institutions have been unable to meet the challenges related to change. A more comprehensive understanding of strategic management theories, frameworks, and tools would give universities a stronger understanding of strategic leadership and its implications for future success.