Abstract

This study gives an insight to how a leader can strategically gain competitive advantage in the targeted institute ie International Islamic University, Islamabad. After in depth interviews with the faculty members and other stakeholders along with observation, the situation seemed unpromising in terms of competitive uplift. The scenario explained is by the concept of the market of lemons where lemons don#x2019;t permit plums to survive as they are endangered by their talent. Few plums who manage to reach the top are also unaware of the real plums present down inside due to imperfect information provided by majority of threatened lemons. Terminology used for lemons is skilled incompetence as their focus is more on political networking and not on performance. However, the role of a strategic leader can bring a change since competing institutes are in no better position. IIUI unlike others had a strategic theme line but deviation to a popular trend is where the problems initiated. Revising the focus has become mandatory for key position holders who hold the power to take decisions. Suggestions also indicate how the problem of job security can be resolved which promotes political grouping and few propositions are given of how a leader must initiate change in the organization.