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Open Access
Article
Publication date: 19 August 2020

Janet Haddock-Fraser and David Gorman

Anyone seeking to influence another is a potential leader. Within higher education, determining what an institution should undertake on sustainability can be daunting…

Abstract

Anyone seeking to influence another is a potential leader. Within higher education, determining what an institution should undertake on sustainability can be daunting. Sustainability leaders face labyrinthine, multifaceted sub-cultures, influencers and viewpoints across staff, students, government, business and alumni all with an opinion on whether, how and in what order of priority sustainability should be taken forward. In this paper we take on this challenge by synthesising and critically evaluating core principles and working models for influencing and leading for sustainability in higher education. We identify a series of eight challenges affecting delivery of sustainability and seek to understand how conceptual models and principles in sustainability decision-making and leadership could address these. We draw on the experience of both authors, in tandem with comments from workshop and leadership training programme participants who attended the Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges (EAUC) Leadership Lab training in the UK, as well as reflections arising in a detailed case study from the University of Edinburgh. We bring key insights from theory and practice for the benefits of individuals or teams seeking to influence and persuade key decision-makers to embrace the sustainability agenda.

Details

Emerald Open Research, vol. 1 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2631-3952

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 March 2024

K. Thomas Abraham

This paper aims to elucidate responsible leadership as a construct with strong moral and ethical underpinnings, as well as a focus on multiple stakeholders and the triple bottom…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to elucidate responsible leadership as a construct with strong moral and ethical underpinnings, as well as a focus on multiple stakeholders and the triple bottom line. This paper also highlights the interdependence of the economic, social and environmental dimensions of a business to achieve corporate sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper is the outcome of analysing and synthesizing the findings of the literature review on three main constructs: responsible leadership, triple bottom line and corporate sustainability. This review enabled the development of logical associations among these constructs.

Findings

The literature revealed logical associations between responsible leadership, the triple bottom line and corporate sustainability. All three constructs embody the three dimensions of economic, social and environmental sustainability, which form the basis of the associations.

Practical implications

Responsible leadership, grounded in stakeholder theory, goes beyond the traditional dyadic leader–follower relationship to influence multiple stakeholders within and outside the organization and achieve positive outcomes for both the organization and society. Multiple levels of outcomes and higher levels of organizational performance for businesses are the hallmarks of responsible leadership.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the importance of responsible leadership and triple bottom-line performance for corporate sustainability. Responsible leadership has the potential to create significant impact on business and society, to achieve long-term corporate sustainability. A conceptual model of responsible leadership is also proposed to show the association between responsible leadership, the triple bottom line and corporate sustainability.

Details

Journal of Global Responsibility, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2041-2568

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 December 2023

Fatima Shaikh, Gul Afshan and Khalil Ahmed Channa

This study aims to investigate the efforts and role of technology leaders in achieving organizational commitment to sustainability through mediating the role of green HRM…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the efforts and role of technology leaders in achieving organizational commitment to sustainability through mediating the role of green HRM practices and moderating the role of green knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach

This empirical research study is based on two theories: upper echelon theory and social capital theory, in which data were collected from 284 permanent faculty employees belonging to the government, semi-government and private HEIs recognized universities of Pakistan.

Findings

The results confirm that the technology leadership style has a significant impact on organizational commitment to sustainability. Whereas green HRM practices as a mediator and green knowledge-sharing behavior as a moderator have also significant impacts on the organizational commitment to sustainability.

Originality/value

This study integrates the concept of technology leadership as a strategy and green HRM practices as a process that jointly impacts organizational commitment to sustainability.

Details

Journal of Organizational Change Management, vol. 37 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0953-4814

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 5 June 2023

Jayne Bryant, James Ayers and Merlina Missimer

Transformative learning and leadership are key leverage points for supporting society’s transition towards sustainability. The purpose of this study was to identify the outcomes…

1120

Abstract

Purpose

Transformative learning and leadership are key leverage points for supporting society’s transition towards sustainability. The purpose of this study was to identify the outcomes of transformational learning within an international sustainability leadership master’s program in Sweden. The study also prototypes a typology for transformative learning (TTL) in the context of sustainability leadership education.

Design/methodology/approach

Alumni spanning 15 cohorts provided answers to a survey, and the responses were used to identify the outcomes of the program. Graduates were asked to describe what transformed for them through the program. Empirical data was coded prototyping the use of the TTL in sustainability education context.

Findings

Graduates of the Master’s in Strategic Leadership towards Sustainability program, described transformation with regards to their Self-in-relation to Others and the World, their Self-knowledge, sense of Empowerment/Responsibility; their Worldview became More Comprehensive or Complex, and they gained New Awareness/New Understandings which transformed their Worldview. Many described transformations in their general Ways of Being in the world. Findings suggest the TTL learning as a good basis for analysis in the education for sustainable development (ESD) context. Suggestions for the TTL include further development of the process that articulates the relational, interdependent and perhaps a priori relationships between elements that transform.

Research limitations/implications

This study presents the outcomes of transformational learning within an international sustainability leadership master’s program. It prototypes the use of a TTL within the ESD context using empirical data. This combination provides practical insights to a dynamic, often theoretical and hard to articulate process.

Originality/value

This study presents the outcomes of transformational learning within an international sustainability leadership master’s program. It prototypes the use of a TTL in the ESD context and assesses the outcomes of a sustainability leadership program using empirical data. This combination provides practical insights to a dynamic, often theoretical and hard to articulate process.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. 24 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 February 2024

Muhammad Zada, Jawad Khan, Imran Saeed, Shagufta Zada and Zhang Yong Jun

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between sustainable leadership and sustainable project performance. Specifically, the study aims to examine the…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between sustainable leadership and sustainable project performance. Specifically, the study aims to examine the mediating role of knowledge integration, examining how knowledge integration within an organization influences project outcomes. In addition, the study seeks to explore the moderating role of top management knowledge values, examining how the values and beliefs of top management influence the relationship between sustainable leadership and project performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-wave survey of 392 employees working in construction sector projects in Pakistan used both hierarchical regression analysis and Hayes’ PROCESS macro method to evaluate the hypotheses.

Findings

The study results show that sustainable leadership positively relates to sustainable project performance and knowledge integration mediating this relationship. In addition, the top management knowledge value moderates the indirect effect of sustainable leadership on sustainable project performance via knowledge integration.

Research limitations/implications

Although the model was tested using three-wave data, it is important to note that the data were obtained from a single source. Therefore, it is possible that common method bias may have influenced the results, and this cannot be disregarded.

Practical implications

Organizations seek to prioritize sustainability and integrate sustainability considerations into their project management processes. Organizations can achieve improved sustainable project performance by investing in sustainable leadership development, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and learning, prioritizing top management support for sustainable performance and integrating sustainable considerations into project management processes.

Originality/value

The study’s grounding on organizational learning theory adds an original and valuable perspective to the relationship between sustainable leadership and sustainable project performance. This investigation is original, as it combines sustainable leadership, knowledge integration and the moderating role of top management knowledge value to understand their impact on sustainable project performance. This unique approach contributes to the literature by providing new insights into these relationships and mechanisms in the construction industry.

Details

Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1367-3270

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 14 December 2023

Liangrong Zu

In this chapter, the author delves deeper into adaptive and sustainability challenges, specifically discussing the roles of management and leadership in addressing these problems…

Abstract

In this chapter, the author delves deeper into adaptive and sustainability challenges, specifically discussing the roles of management and leadership in addressing these problems. Both responsible leadership and management are essential for tackling sustainability challenges. Leadership focuses on establishing a vision and inspiring others to attain it, while management is concerned with devising and executing strategies to realize that vision. Addressing wicked problems necessitates collaboration, engagement and innovative solutions, involving both leadership and management. To effectively conquer sustainability challenges, organizations must embrace a more holistic and sustainable approach to management and leadership. This might include collaborating with stakeholders to discover innovative solutions that prioritize sustainability and social responsibility. Resolving wicked problems calls for a distinct management and leadership approach that is cooperative, systemic, and sustainable.

Details

Responsible Management and Taoism, Volume 1
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80262-790-9

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 July 2022

Mahwish Jamil, Ahmad Firdause Md Fadzil, Amber Waqar and Mohd Rafi Yaacob

The purpose of this study to explore the qualities of the entrepreneur which are required for the sustainability of the family business. The sustainability rate of family business…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study to explore the qualities of the entrepreneur which are required for the sustainability of the family business. The sustainability rate of family business has remained low, particularly with the generation change in the long term. In addition, the body of knowledge on entrepreneurial qualities in relation to family business sustainability is fragmented. Hence, an in-depth understanding on this phenomenon is imperative.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used qualitative study to explore entrepreneurial qualities that lead to family business sustainability in Pakistan. This study used a case study for in-depth analysis of determine the qualities of the entrepreneurs for sustaining entrepreneurs' business for a longer.

Findings

Based on findings, four main themes on the key elements for family business sustainability were identified: cognitive characteristics, leadership role, motivation, and personality traits. These main themes were further divided into sub-themes for in-depth understanding of the qualities of entrepreneur in family business sustainability phenomenon.

Originality/value

A broad range of studies have been conducted on entrepreneurial qualities in relation to business performance and success. However, studies on entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs' qualities have mostly focussed on organisational success, and there are limited studies that fully examine entrepreneurial qualities for family business sustainability. Family business sustainability has received considerably less attention.

Details

Journal of Family Business Management, vol. 13 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2043-6238

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 April 2024

Majid Ghasemy, James A. Elwood and Geoffrey Scott

This study aims to focus on key approaches to education for sustainability (EfS) leadership development in the context of Malaysian and Japanese universities. The authors identify…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to focus on key approaches to education for sustainability (EfS) leadership development in the context of Malaysian and Japanese universities. The authors identify key indicators of effective EfS leadership development approaches using both descriptive and inferential analyses, identify and compare the preferred leadership learning methods of academics and examine the impact of marital status, country of residence and administrative position on the three EfS leadership development approaches.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is quantitative in approach and survey in design. Data were collected from 664 academics and analysed using the efficient partial least squares (PLSe2) methodology. To provide higher education researchers with more analytical insights, the authors re-estimated the models based on the maximum likelihood methodology and compared the results across the two methods.

Findings

The inferential results underscored the significance of four EfS leadership learning methods, namely, “Involvement in professional leadership groups or associations, including those concerned with EfS”, “Being involved in a formal mentoring/coaching program”, “Completing formal leadership programs provided by my institution” and “Participating in higher education leadership seminars”. Additionally, the authors noted a significant impact of country of residence on the three approaches to EfS leadership development. Furthermore, although marital status emerged as a predictor for self-managed learning and formal leadership development (with little practical relevance), administrative position did not exhibit any influence on the three approaches.

Practical implications

In addition to the theoretical and methodological implications drawn from the findings, the authors emphasize a number of practical implications, namely, exploring the applicability of the results to other East Asian countries, the adaptation of current higher education leadership development programmes focused on the key challenges faced by successful leaders in similar roles, and the consideration of a range of independent variables including marital status, administrative position and country of residence in the formulation of policies related to EfS leadership development.

Originality/value

This study represents an inaugural international comparative analysis that specifically examines EfS leadership learning methods. The investigation uses the research approach and conceptual framework used in the international Turnaround Leadership for Sustainability in Higher Education initiative and uses the PLSe2 methodology to inferentially pinpoint key learning methods and test the formulated hypotheses.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 March 2024

Kiranmai Janaswamy, Shulagna Sarkar, Ram Kumar Mishra and Ananda Das Gupta

The word “sustainability” is discussed in several ways since MDGs and SDGs have gained business attention. Sustainability is not just about something’s durability; it also looks…

Abstract

Purpose

The word “sustainability” is discussed in several ways since MDGs and SDGs have gained business attention. Sustainability is not just about something’s durability; it also looks at how to advance development projects without endangering the development of others nearby, both now and in the future (Fink, 2000). It is a drive that weaves together the different facets, including the social, economic, and environmental. World Economic Forum’s has emphasised the need for responsive and responsible leadership. It is in this context, the paper focuses on studying the transformational shift in the role and responsibility of leaders in demonstrating responsible leadership and discusses the ‘Locust and Honeybee Leadership styles’.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature portrays that responsible leaders are recognized by their qualities, competency and skills. One such model is “Locust and Honeybee Leadership,” where the two leadership styles are contrasted. The paper attempts to discuss the varied contexts of these leadership styles and attempts to draw a matrix on the commonalities of both set in an Indian context. A leader should always have openness of thought and integrity.

Findings

Value systems are important for a leader. The major challenge is developing globally responsible leaders and managers who can perform effectively under these conditions of enormous challenge, as they are chronically pushed beyond their capabilities into unexpected roles and unfamiliar domains. Situations compel leaders to make decisions, yet the styles determine the way the decisions are taken. The paper is unique as it discusses the commonalities and contrasting perspectives of the “Locust and Honeybee Leadership.”

Research limitations/implications

The paper is limited to a small number of respondents and is set in Indian context.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the paper is an original piece of work and expresses thoughts of the authors on establishing a sustainable leadership model.

Details

Journal of Global Responsibility, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2041-2568

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 March 2024

Jiang Luo, Syed Imran Zaman, Sobia Jamil and Sharfuddin Ahmed Khan

Organizations have increasingly been compelled to engage in ecological businesses in recent decades, necessitating identifying environmental practices contributing to enhanced…

Abstract

Purpose

Organizations have increasingly been compelled to engage in ecological businesses in recent decades, necessitating identifying environmental practices contributing to enhanced sustainability. One of the main reasons for doing this research is to see how far down the path to green transformational leadership (GTFL) in Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) practices in the healthcare industry in Pakistan. Additionally, this research aims to analyze how this change affects the long-term success of businesses in sustainable performance (SP).

Design/methodology/approach

To identify factors related to the study variables, the research utilized master journals, as well as the Web of Science and Scopus databases. The ISM-DEMATEL (Interpretive Structural Modeling - Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) technique was employed to establish a hierarchical model. This model facilitated the identification of cause-and-effect relationships among factors, which were further elucidated using the DEMATEL interrelationship diagram.

Findings

The analysis of the results indicates that Green Training (F4), Green Job Analysis (F1), Intellectual Stimulation (F10), and Green Product Innovation (F9) are the primary factors that have a significant impact on achieving Environmental Policies and Regulations (F13), and Subjective Environment Norms (F14) of SP factors.

Research limitations/implications

The study is implemented in the healthcare industry of Pakistan, with a focus on practical and managerial aspects. It encourages managers to develop and adapt their human resources policies and environmental strategies. Implementing safety health standards is crucial to mitigate the detrimental effects on the environment. The research was carried out during the period of the pandemic. The scope of this study was restricted to the healthcare industry in Pakistan.

Originality/value

In order to improve SP, this study presents a unique strategy combining sustainability into decision-making procedures with the function of GTFL in GHRM. Implementing safety health standards is crucial to mitigate the detrimental effects on the environment.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 4000