Core competencies and qualifications of health sciences school managers: a multi-method qualitative study.

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences Management
• Academic Leadership
• Competency Frameworks

Background:

• Effective management is crucial for health sciences schools' performance.
• Existing selection processes often lack comprehensive, merit-based criteria.
• This study addresses the need for a tailored competency framework for health sciences leadership.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and define essential competencies for health sciences school managers.
• To develop a merit-based framework for selecting Educational Department Heads and School Deans.
• To emphasize academic excellence and meritocracy in leadership appointments.

Main Methods:

• Multi-method qualitative design including scoping review and document analysis.
• Semi-structured interviews and expert panel discussions to gather stakeholder perspectives.
• Delphi technique employed for validation of the proposed selection process.

Main Results:

• Identified 18 selection criteria across five domains: personal, organizational, professional, educational, and engagement.
• Developed a 16-item checklist for Health Sciences School Deans selection.
• Proposed a structured seven-step process for appointing Educational Department Heads.

Conclusions:

• The study proposes a paradigm shift in appointing health sciences managers.
• Effective leaders require expertise, managerial skills, and knowledge of organizational behavior and change management.
• The developed framework enhances leadership effectiveness and success in health sciences institutions.