Abstract Examples of unusually effective and successful management were uncovered in a study of selected business firms, public agencies, and nongovernmental and community organizations in six Latin American countries. Many employ novel management and organizational development strategies that: run counter to both conventional practice and textbook guidelines; produce significant contributions to social and economic development; and suit leadership and management styles to the local culture. Lessons emerging from the study suggest needed reforms in the content of management education imparted by the region's business schools. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.