The knowledge brokering role of the hybrid middle level manager: The case of healthcare

Abstract

In the literature it is argued that middle level managers (MLMs) enact a strategic role in public sector organizations, at the same time as there exist calls for their delayering so that frontline services can be protected. Such calls do not recognize the strategic importance of the hybrid MLM, who crosses professional frontline and managerial domains. Drawing upon the example of their managerial role in healthcare, we highlight that the hybrid MLM enacts a strategic knowledge brokering role and outline contingent factors framing this more strategic role. © 2013 British Academy of Management.