Leadership and Skilled Migration in Jamaica: Assessing the Impact of Brain Drain on Institutional Capacity

Abstract

This paper examines the impacts of skilled migration on leadership and institutional capacity in Jamaica, focusing on leadership vacuum, diaspora leadership networks, and leadership succession in the context of sustained outflows of highly skilled professionals. Jamaica’s migration patterns reflect one of the highest rates of skilled migration globally, with significant numbers of tertiary-educated individuals leaving the country over recent decades, which has implications for institutional leadership capabilities. Using a conceptual framework from leadership and human capital theory, the study analyses how such migration disrupts domestic leadership structures while highlighting the potential of diaspora engagement to contribute positively to organisational and national development. Findings suggest that brain drain intensifies leadership gaps within critical sectors such as healthcare and education, but also creates conditions for transnational leadership resources and networks to emerge. Strategic approaches to leadership succession and diaspora engagement are discussed as mechanisms for resilience and continuity. The study concludes with policy recommendations for strengthening leadership development frameworks, enhancing diaspora involvement, and improving national strategies to harness the benefits of skilled migration.