Many UK managers lack the aptitude and confidence to step into leadership roles, according to an announcement by Penna plc, a management and recruitment firm.

The firm said only 14% of managers surveyed describe themselves as “visionary” and just 9% said they are “authoritative”, which the firm says are crucial leadership qualities. In addition, only 45% of employees described their manager as an excellent team leader.

In addition, 22% of employees said their manager is failing to engage the team effectively and is not having a positive impact on team morale. And only 14% of managers described themselves as being a better coach than those who have managed them now or in the past.

“In order to retain competitive advantage, businesses must have impactful leaders”, said Penny de Valk, managing director of Penna Talent Practice. “Our research reveals that managers aren’t confident in their own leadership abilities and nor are their direct reports. These capabilities need to be actively developed, or organisations risk falling short of their strategic goals and growth plans with weakness at the very top.”

Penna’s survey included 1,000 employees and 1,000 managers across the UK.

Last month, Adecco (ADEN: VX) announced a bid to acquire Penna.