A Bradford-born academic has exploded many of the lingering myths about leadership after conducting the most in-depth study ever undertaken.
Beverley Alimo-Metcalfe discovered that old notions which idolised tough leaders were fundamentally flawed.
Speaking at the latest One City Lunch at The Bradford Club, Professor Metcalfe said previous studies had been American-based, focusing on white males and had been funded by business or military.
She said the new UK study, the largest ever undertaken in the world, had included women and ethnic minorities.
It had highlighted the most important characteristic of a leader as someone who showed concern for others, valued them and helped them to develop.
"We've now moved into a post-heroic era," said Prof Alimo-Metcalfe, who is working closely with Bradford Council and the City PCT. "Charisma in some people's hands is lethal.
"The study found no correlation between charisma and organisational success."
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