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Performance implications of transformational supply chain leadership and followership

C. Clifford Defee (Department of Aviation and Supply Chain Management, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA)
Theodore P. (Ted) Stank (College of Business Administration, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA)
Terry Esper (Department of Marketing and Logistics, Stokely Management Center, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA)

International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management

ISSN: 0960-0035

Article publication date: 9 November 2010

4216

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop the concepts of supply chain leadership (SCL) and supply chain followership (SCF) from the literature, and propose a theory of leadership in supply chains using a strategy‐structure‐performance theory framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Constructs are defined and valid and reliable scales are developed for SCL, SCF, and three structural elements (information availability, communication, and rewards). Proposed SCL and SCF theoretical relationships are tested using data collected from an interactive simulation and analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings

Transformational SCL and SCF are inter‐related constructs that can be linked to the creation of the three forms of supply chain structure examined in this research to varying degrees. A finding of significance is that supply chain follower organizations may actually have greater influence over operational performance than the supply chain leader.

Research limitations/implications

This research presents an initial test of supply chain‐related constructs not tested in previous research. These represent significant organizational constructs that may benefit future supply chain research efforts.

Practical implications

Transformational supply chain behaviors of leaders and followers can be perceived and measured. Managers may utilize this knowledge to better understand the type of supply chain relationships their organization should most effectively pursue.

Originality/value

The paper introduces the concepts of SCL and SCF and empirically tests these concepts and the structural constructs of information availability, communication, and rewards.

Keywords

Citation

Clifford Defee, C., Stank, T.P.(T). and Esper, T. (2010), "Performance implications of transformational supply chain leadership and followership", International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Vol. 40 No. 10, pp. 763-791. https://doi.org/10.1108/09600031011093205

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2010, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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