In November of 2011, Bob Paulson was appointed as the new Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), becoming the 23rd Commissioner. However, Paulson’s appointment came at a critical time for the RCMP amid a string of scandals including numerous allegations of sexual harassment. Several former members of the RCMP stated that they endured years of sexual harassment from senior officers. According to a staff relations representative, morale within the force has withered to an “all-time low.”

During a press conference at the House of Commons, Paulson promised to reform the RCMP, stating, “First on my plate will be addressing the issue of harassment and sexual harassment” and “I will sort this out in a way that Canadians can have faith and trust in the RCMP.” He said that “accountability and leadership” will be at the top of his long list of priorities.

Canadians have been questioning the RCMP’s ability to safeguard the public as complaints of botched investigations, excessive use of force, and institutional dysfunction have become routine. The Minister of Public Safety, Vic Toews, stated, “The RCMP has been pursuing an ambitious course of change over recent years, and navigating that change has been the challenge of successive commissioners over the years, and it will be no different for the new commissioner...he recognizes that change is necessary.” Paulson replaces former Commissioner William Elliott, who stepped down after being accused by some senior members of the management team for having an abrasive leadership style.

Refer to the theories and approaches to leadership discussed in the chapter and describe the kind of leader that Bob Paulson should be and the type of leadership that is required to change the RCMP. What do the theories of leadership suggest he needs to do to be an effective leader? What advice would you give him? What leadership style and behaviours do you recommend and why?