Both Sides of The Coin: The Story of The Central Bank of Barbados 1972-2017

274 Dr. Kurleigh King (Governor 1987-1992) Introduction The adjective “leading” generally refers to eminence in a particular field (for example, a leading violinist) and not to a leadership of others. However, one can regard the Central Bank of Barbados as a leader from both perspectives. It is foremost among the banks of the country, having the special role of supervising banking activity. It might also be considered to have provided institutional leadership. I can admit that there were times during my tenure when I felt that the Bank was playing anything but a leading role, buffeted as it was by circumstances beyond its control and by the vagaries of politics. But there were also times when it did lead, as even its most grudging detractors would have to admit. A new definition of leadership This notion of the Bank as a leader resulted from a new approach to leadership theory that I pursued after leaving the Bank. Very often leaders are unable to achieve the success they deserve, based on their own personal characteristics and character. This is because leadership is not THE BANK AS A LEADING INSTITUTION