Developing collective leadership for sustained advantage in tourism destinations

Abstract

Stakeholder participation is a key element in effective tourism destination management, yet a major obstacle in achieving sustainable destination outcomes. Currently there is little understanding on how to resolve this problem and new knowledge is required to address this important management area. The aim of this qualitative study is to present a new perspective which is underpinned by theories in the leadership field. It proposes that tourism-based leadership development programs might foster the development of collective leadership, which can better enable the needed stakeholder interaction and engagement. The findings show that today’s tourism leaders need to adapt a mindset that encourages collective actions and the achievement of mutual and sustainable goals.