They exist in most organisations: the Malevolents.
Cynical, manipulative, sarcastic, these people use their power to squash initiative, ridicule anything that looks like care, and generally suck the energy out of life.
This is the most deadening kind of leader – the person with positional authority high up in an organisation but no interest in changing things.
Their actions are mostly about shoring up their position, defending the status quo, and making themselves look good.
Yet they can have their uses. Their sceptical eye can force you to sharpen your ideas.
Once persuaded, they can be a strong ally. And they are seldom completely beyond redemption!
Who are your Malevolents and how could you use them to best effect?