MANUFACTURERS FACE LEADERSHIP CHALLENGE

Leadership Development Survey Results of Medium-sized Canadian Manufacturing Companies

TORONTO, ON -- Manufacturers are looking for leaders at all levels and say their greatest challenge is developing management and people skills in technically oriented people, according to a new survey. Breakthrough Coaching of Toronto, a leading provider of executive and business coaching, today announced the results of its Canadian Leadership Development Survey, focusing specifically on leadership issues facing Canadian Presidents and CEOs in medium-sized manufacturing companies.

Responses were solicited from 25 executives through telephone interviews. All respondents lead companies with between 100 and 500 employees and are recognized as leaders in their industry. This survey was conducted in November and December of 2001.

The No.1 leadership challenge facing manufacturing CEO's is developing management and people skills in technically oriented people. According to 48% of respondents, developing leadership skills was rated a "very high" to "must have" priority.

These professionals may know how to get maximum performance from equipment but do not have the same skill when working with or supervising others. Those with highly developed technical competencies in the hard skills (process design, accounting, engineering) tend not to see the need for the soft skills (clear communication, motivation, effective delegation).

"As companies grow, CEOs are looking for people at every level to take on leadership roles which require new responsibilities and additional skill sets, both of which are required to leverage each employees contribution for measurable results for their team and the organization," points out Ellen Samiec, president of Breakthrough Coaching.

Other Survey Highlights:

Close to half (45%) of organizations surveyed expect to expand their leadership development in 2002.
External training is the primary mode of leadership development, according to 92% of respondents. Other top methods include executive coaching (selected by 55%) and internal training (selected by 54%).
For the executive summary with complete results and observations, E-mail info@TheBreakthroughCoach.com with your name, title and company name, or call (416) 410-4477.