This article was written, but never published, by Dr. Valerie Hall, who died in 2002. Its existence was brought to my attention by Professor Ron Glatter at the memorial event for her held at the University of Bristol. It was presented at a seminar in Milton Keynes in 1998 as part of an ESRC series on "Redefining Educational Management"--a field in which Val excelled, evidenced by her influential publications and work as a leading academic in her field. Its topic--adult learning theory in relation to educational leadership and management--remains highly topical. It is fitting that the article argues for the transformative capability of the professional doctorate, as Val was instrumental in launching Europe's first such award in Education at the University of Bristol. I can think of no more appropriate memorial to her work and influence in the field of educational management.