As policing continues to evolve, Assistant Commissioner of Police Barry Hunte stressed the importance of middle management to The Barbados Police Service’s effectiveness at maintaining law and order.
He said it is important that middle managers learn, understand, and execute policies through effective communication, sound leadership, and effective management.
He made the comments while commending the 20 officers who graduated from the two-week International Leadership Middle Management course, which ran from March 2 to 13 at the Regional Police Training Centre.
Addressing the graduates, Hunte urged middle managers to grasp, translate, and communicate the service’s vision to ensure desired outcomes are met.
He also encouraged them to actively shape a positive organisational culture and motivate subordinates to avoid negative practices. Hunte noted that this same positive approach is necessary when interacting with both internal and external publics.
“In so doing, you must lead with values, integrity, fairness, and respect, irrespective of the circumstances, or especially because of the circumstances. I respectfully submit that characteristics such as commitment, honesty, professionalism, and loyalty to your country and your organisation are but some of the important elements needed to effectively engage your communities. Building trust among your colleagues and the wider public is critical to your professionalism and your community engagement. You have to earn and also sustain the trust of your colleagues and that of the public we serve,” he said.
Hunte emphasised that managing change and embracing technology were pivotal and urged the group to equip itself with the knowledge, skills, and commitment to be part of the process.
“As you embark on your journey as middle managers, I hasten to advise you that you do so in a changing landscape. A landscape that is more hostile, dynamic, flexible, unpredictable, and equally eventful. Therefore, you must adapt as quickly and effectively as possible. As you navigate the journey with unforeseen challenges and circumstances, remember to always rely on the policing plan of The Barbados Police Service as your North Star to guide you and your charges.”
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