Th[e] uniqueness [of the role of dean] stems from an absence of objective and immediate measures of performance combined with arcane governance procedures that may permit some deans to hold office for years without being confronted by those who disagree with their judgments...
Source, in full
Arthur G. Bedeian, "The dean's disease: How the darker side of power manifests itself in the office of dean." Academy of Management Learning & Education 1.2 (2002): 164-173; As cited in: "Art Bedeian on "Dean's Disease" With Commentary by Duane Cobb," at usmnews.net, 2007.