The 2023 competency framework of Estonian Top Civil Service (TCS) consists of three competences and describes a good leader of an organization, who brings clarity, sets an example for others, and acts as a bridge-builder with partners.
Recognizing that crises may be unforeseen and the world unpredictable and fragile, our model focuses on leadership activities that have withstood the test of time, emphasizing inspirational, ethical, inclusive, authentic, responsible leadership grounded in strengths and values. The competency model for top executives outlines the daily activities of a successful leader, which require knowledge, skills, statesmanship, and respect for oneself, others, and the environment.
These competencies have been articulated to create a shared understanding of what good leadership in the public service looks like and the quality of leadership promised to employees. The competencies also help distinguish critical leadership activities from less significant ones and establish clear principles for recruiting and developing top executives. The competency model represents the common ground of various leadership styles, reflecting the perspectives and experiences of today's top executives.
The competencies of Top Executives
Good leader creates clarity:
- Together with employees and partners, by analyzing the environment, assessing risks and considering the political will, sets a long-term goal for the institution or the field
- Designs strategy and well-thought-out work plans to achieve the goal, keeps them relevant
- Creates a work organization favoring innovation and efficiency, which takes into account the development of technology
- Develops crisis preparedness in the position, both by creating a time reserve for the unexpected and by practicing crisis behavior with employees
- Obtains the necessary resources to achieve the goal, uses them prudently
- Creates a capable, diverse and well-collaborative team
- Supports employee well-being, development and performance through challenging, engaging and trusting and encouraging feedback
- Makes decisions based on fact-based information, on time and with clearly defined responsibilities
- Asks for feedback and changes management style if necessary
- Learns new skills, broadens horizons, talks about lessons
Good leader builds bridges:
- Facilitates cooperation networks (including international ones) and holds regular substantive discussions with partners
- Takes responsibility for maintaining and shaping the organization's values and traditions
- Proactively organizes communication both inside and outside the organization
- Makes the field, the organization and its results visible to politicians and society at large Involves different target groups (including politicians) in law-making or in planning the activities of your institution and increases the commonality of their interests
These global trends have the greatest impact on civil service leadership
Leadership in Estonia’s public service is influenced by global trends, among various other factors, and adapting to these trends and proactively responding to them is critical for the sustainable development of the Estonian state. Recent years have shown that major changes can occur suddenly and rapidly, amplifying instability within society and diminishing the sense of security.
People and Society
Like many other European countries, Estonia faces declining birth rates and an aging population, which increases pressure on healthcare and pension systems. In public sector management, this necessitates adapting social services and enhancing workforce utilization, including increasing employment among older individuals. Due to the security situation and climate change, there is heightened migration pressure. The Estonian public sector must be prepared to integrate immigrants by offering language training and supporting their social inclusion.
The public sector must also consider a changing labor market, new work patterns, and the varying expectations of different generations. To attract and retain talent, attractive working conditions must be provided. Competitive and motivating salaries, a positive work environment, recognition, support for mental and physical health, and flexibility in working time and location to better balance work and family life are becoming increasingly important factors in recruiting and engaging the best employees.
Politics and Governance
As part of the European Union and NATO, Estonia must be prepared for rising global tensions. This requires strong diplomacy, investment in defense capabilities, and cooperation with allies. The war in Ukraine, the growing confrontation between Russia and NATO, as well as trade and technology tensions between the US and China, military conflicts, and political instability in the Middle East have increased international migration and the number of refugees, placing pressure on the social and healthcare systems across Europe.
Citizens expect governance to be agile, resilient, and able to swiftly adapt to changes in times of crisis. This involves a strategic combination of technological, policy, and regulatory innovations to maintain continuity while effectively responding to emergencies and environmental changes. There is an increasing demand for cross-sectoral cooperation to address complex societal issues.
Environment and Climate
To mitigate climate change and in response to the growing global significance of environmental issues, public sector leaders must integrate sustainability into their governance models. This includes the use of technology for emissions monitoring and efficient management of environmental impacts. Climate change mitigation, the increased adoption of renewable energy, and sustainable solutions are crucial topics to consider in management.
Public sector policies must facilitate the transition to a greener economy. In a situation of resource scarcity, Estonia must develop strategies for the more efficient use of various resources, including raw materials, and promote the circular economy.
Technology and Innovation
A nation's capacity for innovation is a key driver of productivity, economic growth, and prosperity. The public sector must adapt to rapidly evolving technology. Data analytics, artificial intelligence, e-services, and cybersecurity are areas where leadership must be innovative and flexible. Accelerated technological development brings about a need for greater regulation to ensure the ethical use of technology. Estonia is known as a digital leader, making continued investment in technology and innovation essential. This also encompasses the ethical and effective use of new technologies, artificial intelligence, and big data in the public sector. Integrating technology into daily life and work requires policy frameworks that protect citizens' privacy and security, as well as manage changes affecting the labor market. Estonia's digital governance must continually evolve to keep pace with technological advancements, addressing new challenges such as the spread of disinformation and cyber threats.
Last updated: 02.04.2025