The Influence of Organizational Culture on Leadership Style in Higher Education Institutions
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Date
2019-11-07
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Emerald Publishing Limited
Abstract
Purpose – This study aims to explore the impact of organisational culture on leadership
styles in Nigerian universities. The study utilises cultural dimensions theory (Hofstede’s
insights) and the social exchange concept as theoretical lenses to examine the phenomena.
Design/methodology/approach – Using a qualitative approach, 40 interviews were
conducted with senior academics and non-teaching staff working in Nigerian universities.
Findings – The findings reveal hierarchical, patriarchal, servile, and interdependent values as
the underlying characteristics of organisation culture, shaping the choice of leadership styles
in the management of Nigerian universities. As a result, it emerged from the study that
positional, formalised exchanges, paternalism, relational approach, and gendered reactions to
leadership were typically adopted in university administration in this context.
Limitations/implications – The study relies on a small qualitative sample size, which makes
the generalisation of findings difficult. However, the study provides a good understanding of
cultural hegemony, framing leadership styles different to those of western cultures.
Originality/value – The findings of this study help to bridge the research gap concerning the
implications of organisational culture, and its influence on leadership behaviours in the Sub-
Saharan African context. Research within this subfield in Africa is rare. Specifically, the
study also enriches our understanding of cultural dimensions, informing the leadership
methods adopted in higher education institution
Description
Staff Publication
Keywords
Leadership Styles, Nigerian Universities, Organisational Culture, Hofstede's Culture Theory, Social Exchange
Citation
Akanji, B., Mordi, C., Ituma, A., Adisa, T. and Ajonbadi, H. 2019. The Influence of Organisational Culture on Leadership Style in Higher Education Institutions. Personnel Review. 49 (3), pp. 709-732. https://doi.org/10.1108/PR-08-2018-0280