In the July 6^th edition of the Royal City Record there was a letter to the editor purportedly written by Ron Gordon. In addition to making some observations about me, the writer waxes eloquent on the topic of leadership and associated issues. The writer displays remarkable ignorance on what leadership really is, while royally confusing concepts of leadership, management and strategy. The writer uses various concepts of management and leadership in the same way that a drunk uses a light standard, that is for support rather than enlightenment. Forgive me if I digress.

What is striking about the letter, however, is its apparent gender biased view of leadership. Two female readers buttressed my own observation of this point in this particular letter.

The issue of gender bias would normally have passed low under the radar, and this would have been dismissed by most as merely another politically motivated letter. However, for those watching goings on at city hall, the letter really struck a chord.

Tongue in cheek, it could lead one to ask, what does Monday Night Council have in common with Monday Night Football? Let’s explore that question.

A quick inspection of the current senior management team at City Hall displays the total lack of female representation. The same inspection taken in January of 2003, would have revealed that there were three female department heads. Just what has taken place?

Coincidence? Not important? Not concerned yet? Look further.

Look at the people in the middle management level and below that have left the organization in the last year and you will find the same theme occurring. A cursory examination on my part came up with the names of eight women who have left the organization in the last year for reasons other than retirement.

Is this the sign of a fluid and vibrant job market? Perhaps. Glass ceiling? Again, perhaps.

I have had, for some time, concerns about this trend in the organization. As a result, I have had discussion with some of the women who have left. What the discussions showed, to be fair, that there are a variety of reasons for the departures

One theme does emerge, however, and that is that most of the women that have left felt undervalued and that there were more readily available and better opportunities in other organizations and municipalities.

I find that to be a trend that causes me concern.

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