Final answer:
Strategic leadership pertains to the use of power and influence by top executives to guide organizational goals. Top executives play a crucial role in strategy and have a strong voice in choosing board members, even though boards should represent shareholder interests.
Step-by-step explanation:
Strategic leadership involves the process by which top executives, rather than managers, shareholders, or board members, use power and influence to direct the activities of others towards the achievement of organizational goals. Mainly, top executives are in a pivotal position to shape the strategy and direction of the company. Even though the board of directors theoretically ensures the company operates in the best interests of the shareholders, it is the top executives who have a significant say in determining the board's composition. This is partly because not many shareholders are willing or able to invest the necessary resources to nominate alternative candidates.