A study of the influential levers used by the Salvation Army in the United Kingdom to secure local centre outcomes in conurbations consistent with its mission and objectives
Abstract
Churches face management challenges comparable with those in secular organizations, but
with additional dimensions that include the primacy of religious purpose and an inherent
concern that excessive managerial focus may inhibit this purpose. This research examined the
influential levers – essentially, factors fully or partially within the control of leaders or
managers at each level – used in the Salvation Army’s United Kingdom operations to help
achieve local outcomes in accordance with its overall mission and objectives.
Adopting a primarily phenomenological approach, the research used questionnaire surveys,
semi-structured interviews and secondary statistical data to examine views and results at
local, divisional and territorial levels, and to assess their implications. Primary data sources
consisted of 23 local leaders and managers, 13 local volunteers or employees, 13 divisional or
territorial officials, and 4 divisional commanders.
The research confirmed the validity and relevance of the concept and (with minor
qualifications) its posited components. Leadership was of particular importance, as was an
internal spiritual climate.
The research is expected to be of direct value to the Salvation Army in the United Kingdom,
and potentially to the Salvation Army elsewhere. The concept of influential levers may also
have indicative value to churches and other charities – particularly those with locally
devolved activities – and to organizations generally.