Problem 1: According to John Kotter (1995): "Leadership and Management are two distinct but complementary systems. While managers promote stability, leaders press for change. Only organizations that can embrace both sides of that contradiction can thrive in turbulent times." How would you distinguish between leadership and management? List at least five specific responsibilities of leaders vs. managers that you can compare and contrast in light of Kotter's statement.
Problem 2: What are key differences between ethical leadership and standard approaches to management? Describe current practices in for-profit corporations that support or discourage ethical leadership? Use specific examples to support you statements.
Problem 3: You are an HR Consultant to a for-profit corporation that provides medical supplies to treat childhood illnesses. The company's mission statement is "Providing Superior Products to Support the Health and Welfare of Children." The company is facing challenges caused by the loss of several large orders due to Department of Health funding cutbacks and is interested in reducing the size of its workforce. A number of the employees have been with the company for many years and are known nationally for the expertise customers can access freely. They are among the highest paid employees. What do you consider to be ethical requirements in making this change? Explain specifically what and why, identifying what must be preserved or changed in order to be consistent with ethical principles.