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ICA – Psychology Division

Qualities of a Good Leader

Where you learn about the ICA Leadership Competency Framework

Last updated 2 March 2026

Understanding the qualities that make an effective ICA leader can be elusive without guidance. Thankfully, our ICA Leadership Competency Framework (ILCF) is here to provide clarity. The ILCF highlights the competencies and qualities essential for effective ICA leadership. Gain valuable insights and strengthen your leadership knowledge by delving into the ILCF and identifying key areas to focus on. Empower your confidence as leaders by leveraging on the ILCF to enhance your leadership skills within ICA.

ICA Leadership Competency Framework (ILCF)

ICA leadership competency framework diagram

The ICA Leadership Competency Framework (ILCF) defines what is expected of ICA leaders. The ILCF is developed in-house and consists of inputs and experiences shared by ICA officers from all leadership levels.

The framework presents 3 broad areas of leadership in ICA: Leading Self, Leading Task and Leading People.

These 3 areas are further broken down into 5 domains of leadership (Resilient, Thinking, Adaptable, Inspiring and Collaborative) which encompass 11 key leadership competencies to capture the essence of leadership behaviours in ICA.

The 5 Domains of Leadership

north star

ILCF North Star Heuristics, a visual to help you remember the 5 different leadership domains.

Leading Self Diagram

Resilient Leader

A Resilient Leader is adept at personal mastery in which he/she continuously learns from past experiences and strives to overcome challenges, without giving up.

Leading Task Diagram

Thinking Leader

A Thinking Leader views things in a wider perspective and gathers different information to better understand the situation. The leader considers others’ or their own actions and decisions, and will seek clarification when unclear. Whenever possible, the leader also provides constructive feedback with the aim of developing ICA to greater heights.

 Adaptable Leader

An Adaptable Leader is someone who adapts well to changes and uncertainties in performing duties, spots emerging trends and challenges to develop flexible action plans to manage them effectively, and often taps upon past experiences or learns new techniques that can help generate feasible and effective solutions to problems.

Leading People Diagram

Collaborative Leader

A Collaborative Leader understands the importance of effective collaboration with stakeholders and partners, and values the working relationships with ICA counterparts, stakeholders, and partners for effective teamwork to achieve common objectives.

Inspiring Leader

An Inspiring Leader inspires the team and fosters a sense of purpose in their work. The leader builds trust and a culture of care within the team through open communication and genuine concern. The leader also empowers team members to take charge and develop their individual capabilities.

The 11 Key Leadership Competencies

The 11 leadership competencies are categorised under the various leadership domains and focal areas as shown below.

ICA leadership competency framework image