In the fields of leadership and management studies, there have been substantial research in both academic theories and applied case studies. However, specifically in relation to the management and governance of religious and social organizations, much more practical research is required. By building upon the Buddhist doctrines of “dependent arising” and “selflessness”, this research attempts to analyze leadership and management models from the Buddhist perspectives, look into the nature of leadership and management, as well as the sense of identity. By illustrating the realizations of compassion and wisdom of the Buddha-s and Bodhisattva-s, the Buddhist spirit of selfless vow and genuine care is explained. With reference to the teachings of the Heart Sutra and the Diamond Sutra, Interdependent Leadership Management Model (ILMM)—a sustainable management model is introduced to exemplify the ideals, teachings and practices of the Buddha-s and Bodhisattva-s. ILMM is particularly relevant in corporates, social services, other professional fields demanding perseverance against emotional and intellectual drain. Accordingly, leaders can achieve transcendence and purification through not only technical but also “mind” skills. Using the “Fivefold Spiritual Renaissance Campaign”, “Six Ethics of the Mind Campaign” and “Four Kinds of Environmentalism” taught by Venerable Sheng Yen as illustrations, this research further explores the possibility of implementing ILMM to transform the governance of a family, an organization, a corporate and a society beginning from each of our minds.
