Proxy: The Appointed Path

Abstract

As another path that relatively few of our readers may have walked, the journey of a Proxy leader also provides lessons in its contrasts with other paths. Proxy leaders generally are appointed for a specific purpose and expertise and are typically meant to faithfully represent the principal who appointed them. Their opportunities therefore often relate to the principal, using his or her reputation and power to get things done, or to allow others to share access to the principal’s power. Appointed leaders are often limited in their time and focus, which can be challenging for themselves and those they work with. In some cases, those working with appointed leaders may resent their focus, such as when the Proxy seems underqualified on their own merit, or seems more concerned with pleasing the principal than helping the organization more broadly.