Leadership styles in event management, a critical reflection case study

Abstract

Event managers lead diverse workforces within timebound, service-oriented settings. These conditions create challenges for event managers in delivering effective leadership. Drawing upon critical reflection as a pedagogical tool, this case study follows the reflective journey of ‘Aria,’ owner of a fictitious event management business called South-East Events. Following a critical service quality incident, Aria felt compelled to reconsider her own leadership approach and the impact she has on her event staff. The case study traces Aria’s journey of learning about leadership theory along with her experiences of discussing leadership with other event managers.