Ignatian Leadership: A Hermeneutic Look at the Genesis, Development and Validity of Its Transformative Praxes

José María Villanueva Núñez-Lagos (), Ana García-Mina Freire, Gonzalo Aza Blanc and José María Guibert Ucín
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José María Villanueva Núñez-Lagos: Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Comillas Pontifical University, 28108 Madrid, Spain
Ana García-Mina Freire: Department of Psychology, Comillas Pontifical University, 28108 Madrid, Spain
Gonzalo Aza Blanc: Department of Psychology, Comillas Pontifical University, 28108 Madrid, Spain
José María Guibert Ucín: Department of Industrial Organisation, University of Deusto, 48007 Bilbao, Spain

Administrative Sciences, 2025, vol. 15, issue 7, 1-16

Abstract: This article addresses a gap in the literature by offering the first structured reconstruction of the origins, motivations, and development of Ignatian Leadership, connecting its spiritual roots, conceptual foundations, and institutional applications within a coherent and transferable framework. The study explores the genesis, evolution, and contemporary relevance of Ignatian Leadership as a transformative model that combines organisational management principles with the spirituality of Saint Ignatius of Loyola and the Jesuit tradition. Through a qualitative methodology, we conducted an exhaustive review of 54 documents and interviews with key experts, incorporating diverse phenomenological perspectives. The findings show that this leadership model emerged to renew the apostolic mission of the Society of Jesus, modernise its educational management, and empower both laypeople and Jesuits in leadership roles. Grounded in Ignatian spirituality—particularly in the practice of discernment aimed at promoting actions inspired by the Magis, in ever deeper and greater service to the most universal good—it seeks to serve others and promote the common good. Over time, the model has expanded beyond religious contexts, offering a counter-cultural and ethically grounded leadership style applicable in educational, managerial and civic settings. This shift of focus not only paves the way for institutional change but also guides individuals towards a more authentic and meaningful life.

Keywords: Ignatian Leadership; Ignatian spirituality; organisational management; leadership model; personal transformation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: L M M0 M1 M10 M11 M12 M14 M15 M16 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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