A competency-based approach to recruiting, developing, and giving feedback to department chairs

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Healthcare Management
• Leadership Studies

Background:

• Academic health centers (AHCs) face significant pressures, necessitating effective leadership.
• Department chairs, despite academic qualifications, often lack adequate preparation for leadership roles.
• Existing leadership development and assessment processes may not fully equip chairs for AHC challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To improve the recruitment, development, and feedback processes for department chairs at Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM).
• To align chair selection and support with six key leadership competencies.
• To enhance the effectiveness of AHC leadership and shape institutional culture.

Main Methods:

• Reorganized recruitment around six leadership competencies: leadership and team development, performance and talent management, vision and strategic planning, emotional intelligence, communication skills, and commitment to the tripartite mission.
• Implemented standardized recruitment procedures and centralized staff support for chair searches.
• Established a chair development series focused on leadership competencies.
• Utilized structured feedback through the Department Chair 360° Leadership Survey and Faculty Vitality Survey.

Main Results:

• Standardized recruitment procedures were developed to assess candidates on six leadership domains.
• A dedicated development series was created to support chairs' learning and professional growth.
• Structured, annual feedback mechanisms were implemented for chairs, reviewed by the dean.
• The initiative aimed to systematically improve chair preparedness and AHC leadership effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Strategic focus on selection, development, and feedback enhances department chair success.
• Improved leadership can positively influence the culture and operational effectiveness of AHCs.
• Competency-based approaches are vital for preparing leaders in complex academic health environments.