The British Army is moving away from the traditional “shouty” leadership style, with officers now being encouraged to adopt a “more David Beckham” style.
Military leaders are being urged to stop yelling at junior recruits and instead focus on building respect through approachability and tactfulness.
According to Warrant Officer Matt Howarth, speaking to the official army magazine Soldier, the days when officers “shouted and screamed” like the infamous drill sergeant in Stanley Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket are “long gone”.
The modern military leadership philosophy now emphasises earning respect rather than intimidating subordinates.
Howarth explained that people often misunderstand modern military leadership, assuming officers still behave like the brutal commanders depicted in films and television.
He said: “For me, the picture of a good leader is more like former England footballer David Beckham, who never seemed to raise his voice, was always approachable, and who learned from his mistakes.
“With all regimental sergeant majors (RSMs) becoming the principal adviser to their commanding officers, a key focus is on maintaining this relationship an environment of trust is critical but they must have the confidence to challenge when needed.
“Going back to David Beckham, one of his key strengths was that he kept an eye on the future and his aspirations beyond the pitch.”
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Warrant Officer Carl Cane, who oversees the instruction course for RSMs, noted how the role has evolved since he began his career in the late 1990s.
He explained: “Principally, they are now more visible and approachable to the soldiers they are responsible for.
“It is a demanding life, so it is helpful to be able to call on one another.”
His colleague, Warrant Officer Ciar Crow, broadly supported the shift, stating: “I think if you put me on the spot in the Hartman v Beckham debate, the ideal RSM temperament needs to be made up of around three-quarters the former England captain and the remaining 25 per cent the gunnery sergeant.
“People need to know that Hartman is in you, even if he doesn’t often appear. It’s no good if all you do is shout, though.”
Warrant Officer Will Laughlan confirmed the cultural shift, revealing how rarely modern military leaders resort to raising their voices.
“I remember the RSM being the person who did the shouting if you did things wrong. It’s different now,” Laughlan said.
He added: “In my last role as a squadron sergeant major, I only ever raised my voice once.”
