Monday ended on a low note (like Monday’s have an option). Our direct boss has resigned. The AD was only member of management who didn’t drink the kool-aid. She was open and honest, and not afraid to be the lone voice in the wilderness.
Admittedly when the new AD arrived, I wasn’t thrilled. It took a year before I really came to appreciate the skills she had to offer. Once she dropped the micromanaging and I slowly learned to let go (bit of a control freak, I am) things went smoothly. I have come to really value her insight into our industry.
The boss understands strategy is not just a word, but a direction with thoughful action. I whole-heartedly believe if she had run the current project directly, our institution would have exceeded its goal by the end of the project date.
I have never before worked at a place that ignores the facts because they don’t like them. The AD provided empirical evidence on a regular basis on the status of the project and its participants, but instead of using the data to evaluate, redirect or evolve the process, they asked her to remove data from the report. At this point the report may only have a title and date. Ignoring the data doesn’t change the story. The Emperor (project) is, indeed, naked (failing). Everyone can see it, but no one else will say it out loud, except the one solitary voice who has had enough and is moving on.
I wish the boss well, and will truly miss the professionalism, wisdom and humour she has displayed daily. Good luck and take us with you.
