TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP AND OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE OF ORGANIZATIONS: PERSPECTIVES FROM THE PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN KENYA

Abstract

In the world of competition, change of technology and environmental complexity, transformative leadership is inevitable. Despite the vital role of transformative leadership in competitive organization, little has been done by researchers to demystify the association between transformative leadership and operational performance of organizations. Thus, it is on this basis this study sought to investigate the link between transformative leadership and operational performance of selected public universities in Kenya. The specific objective of this study was determining the influence of transformative leadership on the operational performance of selected public universities in Kenya. Dynamic capabilities as well as transformative leadership theories were used to inform this study. A total of 312 respondents were obtained from a sample frame of 15 universities drawn from 31 public universities operating in Kenya were the sample frame. The respondents were selected using stratified random sampling technique. A sample size of 175 respondents was determined using Israel scientific formula. Only members of the teaching were involved in this study as respondents due to their knowledge and experience of the phenomena investigated. Primary data was collected using structured questionnaires while secondary data was obtained from strategic plans. Data was analysed using both the descriptive and regression methods. A positive and significant link was established between transformative leadership and operational performance of selected public universities in Kenya (B=0.189; Sig=0.031). The study concluded that transformative leadership can effectively explain operational performance of selected public universities if effectively embraced. It was recommended that for enhanced operational performance in public universities, transformative leadership is not an option but a mandatory practice. Findings of this study contributes significantly to theory, managerial practice as well as to policy