Amedisys Command Change: Firing Line

The Change of Command ceremony is a time-honored tradition which formally symbolizes the continuity of authority as the command is passed from one individual to another. It is a formal ceremony which is conducted before the assembled company of the Command. The Change of Command as traditionally practiced within the military is unique in the world today; it is a transfer of total responsibility, authority, and accountability from one individual to another. -- military manual

A military change of command is a special event. High-ranking officers and dignitaries give speeches. An impeccably dressed military band plays John Philip Sousa tunes while the members of the command stand in formation with families and friends seated in front of a flag-draped dais.

The outgoing commanding officer is recognized for accomplishments and the incoming commanding officer lays out a vision for the organization. The change of command occurs regularly every two years, which ensures continuity and provides new leadership the opportunity to try different strategies.

We used the phrase "no band change of command" to describe when a commanding officer or other high ranking individual was relieved of command for reasons other than normal circumstances. Sometimes the reasons were known, such as a mishap that resulted from a failure of leadership. Other times the gray phrase "loss of confidence in the ability to command" was used by military leadership as a broad description for the removal of an individual.

In the business world, a formal change of command is a rare event, as I have detailed in several previous columns, and it usually results in a negative impact to the business. The stock price takes a hit, and shareholders, customers and partners are left to wonder what is wrong with the organization.

While a no band change of command often signals a problem, it also represents an opportunity. For whatever reason, the person holding a position of leadership is no longer there, but the fundamental organization remains. If there was a leadership problem, it often leaves with the individual. If there was a larger organizational issue, it often remains, but the new leadership has the chance to fix it.