Hunting the Snark or Leading with Purpose? Managing the Enterprise University

Abstract

ABSTRACT In Lewis Carroll's classic poem, ‘The Hunting of the Snark’, there is little understanding about what a ‘Snark’ actually might be. There is similar disagreement about the ways in which contemporary universities should be led and managed, and few writers move beyond broad generalisations for action. This is particularly truc for writers analysing higher education from the perspectives of sociological analyses (eg. Meek & Wood 1997) political economy, and institutional theory perspectivcs (eg. Marginson & Considine 2000). Building on recent research by Poole (2000, 2001a), the paper charts current understandings of university governance and leadership, identifies research gaps, and begins to explore how apparently dichotomous managerial choices may be reconciled by university leaders confronting the complexities of managing the enterprise university. To seek it with thimbles, to seek it with careTo pursue it with forks and hopeTo threaten its life with a railway-shareTo charm it with smiles and soap!For the Snark's a peculiar creature that won'tBe caught in a commonplace way.Do all that you know, and try all that you don't:Not a chance must be wasted today!(Carroll 1973)