Theses and Dissertations (University of Pretoria)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/31741

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The impact of inclusion on employee engagement : evidence from the South African financial sector
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Ruiters, Michele; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Sekhukhune, Mpatsake Jessica
Globalisation has been expedited by technological advancements, which have led to a growing number of diverse workforces on a global scale. Nevertheless, diversity is an inherent characteristic of South Africa's demographic makeup. However, the mere presence of diverse individuals does not necessarily promote an inclusive environment, and diversity alone does not equate to inclusion. Scholars have conducted a comprehensive examination of diversity and inclusion, highlighting the significance of inclusion in facilitating the success of diverse workforces. Nevertheless, such studies have not investigated South Africa's finance sector context; this research has been conducted in other regions and various sectors. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the correlation between employee engagement and inclusion in the finance sector of South Africa, thereby contributing to the current existing knowledge on the subject. This study employed a structured questionnaire to collect data from 211 respondents in the South African finance sector, utilising a quantitative approach. The results demonstrated a statistically significant correlation between employee engagement and inclusion, suggesting that inclusion functions as a predictor of employee engagement. These findings emphasise the critical importance of inclusive practices in the development of a productive and engaged workforce in diverse organisational settings.
Examining the role of business analytics for the adaptation of business models among South Africa SMEs
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Mathibe, Tshidi; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Nyandane, Meranda Rirhandzu
SMEs play a critical role in fostering economic growth across developing countries. However, these enterprises face noteworthy challenges in developing strategies to survive and be competitive in the dynamic business environment. The purpose of this study was to bridge the research gap and examine the role of business analytics (BA) in adapting business models among SMEs. Design/methodology/approach: A qualitative multiple-case method was employed through semi-structured interviews of SME business owners and managers Findings: The examination conducted in the study through thematic analysis revealed that SMEs face several challenges. However, BA is instrumental in helping SMEs understand majorly customer needs and behaviour, enabling them to adapt their value proposition based on customer insights. To maximise the benefits of BA, SMEs need to have a clear objective for business analytics that aligns with their overall business strategy.
The lived experiences of African and coloured women in top management and their contribution to organisational strategic decision-making in South African organisations
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Scheepers, Caren; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Nyamande, Muelelwa
Despite the progress women of colour in South Africa have made in being represented in top management, African and Coloured women remain underrepresented in most senior parts of their organisations. With that in mind, what is still unclear is what happens with women of colour when they have reached top management, and how they are involved in critical decisions within their organisations. Understanding their lived experiences through the lens of intersectionality and role congruency theory gives insights into what these experiences look like and whether the idea of tokenism persists in corporate South Africa at that level. The main elements of focus concerning their roles are the intersection of race and gender, together with their leadership level, and examining what role they play in strategic decision-making in their organisations. this study examines how African and Coloured women are engaged in the process of strategic decision-making in their organisations. Through interviews, data was gathered that answered the question, confirming that they are involved in this process of strategic decision-making. Even with this outcome, they still face barriers in their roles as senior leaders, with their organisations committed to the cause of accelerating women in leadership role.
The adoption of artificial intelligence in programmatic advertising in South Africa based on relative ease and usefulness using the diffusion of technology theory
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Myburgh, Suzanne; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Panday, Adheesha
The modern business landscape is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by the fourth industrial revolution, which fundamentally changes customer needs and expectations. The dynamic duo of technological advancement and changing customer expectations has rewritten the rules of the brand-customer engagement model. Customers are now seeking personalised experiences while prioritising data safety and privacy, adding complexity to online interactions. In this digital era, successful brands will be those that balance personalised connection with robust data protection. This research study leveraged the Diffusion of Technology theoretical framework to understand how the adoption of artificial intelligence in programmatic advertising is influenced based on relative ease and usefulness in South African organisations. The extant literature review process revealed that the adoption of artificial intelligence in programmatic advertising is still in a nascent stage in South Africa. Furthermore, programmatic advertising within digital advertising is significantly under-researched. Therefore, this research study has been undertaken to understand the adoption of artificial intelligence in programmatic advertising based on relative ease of use and usefulness. This exploratory study employed a qualitative research approach, conducting 12 semistructured interviews with Google Partners, digital media experts with hands-on experience in artificial intelligence-driven programmatic advertising. Google Partners' expertise made them ideal participants, providing valuable insights into artificial intelligence’s role in programmatic advertising. This study found a significant gap in artificial intelligence adoption for programmatic advertising, driven by marketers' perceptions of AI's usefulness and ease of use. These findings, informed by the Diffusion of Technology theory, highlight key factors influencing marketers' decisions to integrate artificial intelligence into their advertising strategies.
The effects of inclusive leadership behaviour on the turnover intention of knowledge workers
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Meintjes, Anel; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Ntulini, Mncedisi Xolani Tamayi
The knowledge-based economy has created circumstances where knowledge held by employees is an asset that a firm can use to create and sustain a competitive advantage. Despite this increased attention to knowledge and knowledge management, the retention of knowledge workers remains a challenge. Increasingly, employers are turning to inclusiveness to realise the best out of their knowledge workers. This research investigated the impact of inclusive leadership on the turnover intention of knowledge workers in South Africa. The researcher conducted 11 in-depth semi-structured interviews to explore how inclusive leadership behaviours, such as creating a supportive environment, promoting fairness, involving employees in decision-making, soliciting different perspectives and showing appreciation, influence employees’ sense of workgroup inclusion. Through a phenomenological study, it was found that inclusive work behaviours reduce the likelihood of turnover intention among knowledge workers. It was also found that showing appreciation and creating a perceived environment of support had the most impact on knowledge workers' turnover intention. The study provides insights into how these leadership behaviours can reduce turnover intention, thereby helping organisations retain valuable knowledge workers and maintain a competitive advantage.
Trust as a moderator in the influence of AI technology readiness on AI technology adoption
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Chiba, Manoj; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Van Niekerk, Hendrik Albertus Cornelius
Artificial intelligence adoption is accelerating and transforming industries worldwide through a wide range of applications with the potential to generate significant value. Thus, understanding what effectively drives adoption would give organisations a competitive advantage. The study determines whether trust moderates the relationship from AI technology readiness to AI technology adoption by individuals working for organisations. The frameworks used for the study are the technology readiness index and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. The data comprising 213 usable responses was collected using an online survey. The correlation and moderation were separately tested using the Spearmans Correlation Coefficient and stepwise hierarchical multiple regression. Although there is support from broader context literature for trust’s moderation on the relationship between AI technology readiness and AI technology adoption, the study only found that trust has a significant positive moderating effect on the relationship between Readiness Motivators and the use of AI in specialised tasks. The research delivered a model that managers can use to facilitate the effective adoption of AI technology by individuals in their organisations. Finally, a need was identified to do more research, especially on the adoption of AI technology by individuals in an organisation.
Exploring the role of middle managers enabling leadership for organisational adaptability
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Ndletyana, Dorothy; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Van der Merwe, Liezel Emmerantia
In the context of a rapidly evolving and complex business environment, organisational adaptability has become a critical factor for sustainable success. This study explores the role of middle managers as a leader in fostering organisational adaptability within the highly complex mining sector. Drawing upon the theory of leadership for organisational adaptability, this study examines how middle managers influence adaptive spaces and the conditions that foster or inhibit organisational adaptability. Through a qualitative study analysis, the research investigates the practices employed by middle managers and the conditions to align organisational processes to be able to shift and adapt during market demands, technological advancements, and regulatory changes, which are examples of events of complexity in the business environment. The findings reveal that middle managers act as key enablers of adaptability by facilitating communication between senior leadership and operational teams, promoting innovation, and driving collaboration. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of cultivating adaptive spaces within the organisational structure to allow for decision-making, empowerment and continuous learning. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of leadership dynamics in complex environments and offers practical insights into how the leadership positions in the hierarchical power of an organisation can be utilised to drive organisational adaptation, whilst facing high levels of complexity and volatility.
The impact of big data analytics capabilities on service innovation in state-owned enterprises : the moderating role of institutional pressure
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Makhubele, Lean; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Zondi, Sibahle Zamantungwa
Technological advances and trends such as connected devices, application of sensors, and online content have resulted in an increase in available data. This has led to an increased importance of big data analytics among researchers and managers, highlighting the value that big data analytics can bring to organizations. The study addresses a significant research gap in understanding how big data analytics capabilities (BDAC) influence service innovation within the context of stateowned enterprises (SOEs). While previous research has extensively explored the impact of BDAC on innovation in private and large multinational organizations, there is limited knowledge on its effects within SOEs, particularly in developing economies like South Africa. This study aims to also fill this gap by analysing the contextual environment by examining the role of institutional pressures in moderating the relationship between BDAC and service innovation. The purpose of the study is to determine the impact of BDAC on service innovation in SOEs and to provide insights for SOE leaders on how to invest in BDAC to enhance efficiency and performance through service innovation. The research also seeks to uncover the role of institutional pressures in moderating this relationship A quantitative mono study methodology was conducted, involving a survey distributed to employees in various SOEs in South Africa. The data collected was analysed using statistical methods, including Structured Equation Modelling, Pearson’s correlation, Spearman’s rho correlation, and linear regression analysis. The results indicate that BDAC has a positive and significant impact on service innovation in SOEs. Among the BDAC components, intangible capabilities were found to have the most significant impact on service innovation. Additionally, the study found that institutional pressures, particularly normative and mimetic pressures, positively moderate the relationship between BDAC and service innovation. Coercive pressure, however, did not show a significant moderating effect. In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of investing BDAC to drive service innovation in SOEs. It also emphasizes the need for SOE leaders to foster a datadriven culture and organizational learning to maximize the benefits of BDAC. The findings suggest that while institutional pressures can enhance the impact of BDAC on service innovation, the role of coercive pressure is less significant. Future research should explore the dynamic capabilities view of BDAC and its impact on ii service innovation over time, as well as the development of a standard BDAC model for different contexts.
The influence of intragroup conflict on career advancement of women in corporate
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Whittaker, Louise; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Tleane, Refilwe
This paper investigates intragroup conflict as a mechanism that influences women's career progression in corporate settings, using as its basis mid-career women in South Africa's retail and wholesale industries. It explores how task and relationship conflicts among women are fuelled by competition for scarce resources, economic pressures, and feelings of rivalry. Building from the Realistic Conflict Theory and Social Identity Theory, this research seeks to explain how such conflicts shape women's workplace experiences and their careers. Through semi-structured interviews with 13 participants, this study found that such conflicts, as those identified with the Queen Bee Syndrome, form a barrier to collaboration, limit mentorship opportunities, and impinge on women's progress in the workplace. The findings suggest these internal conflicts are exacerbated by competitive corporate cultures and gender biases and call for policy changes that allow supports and cooperation among women at work. By addressing both external challenges and internal group dynamics, this study helps understand the barriers to women's advancement in corporate settings. It closes with recommendations for companies to provide an inclusive environment where women can collaborate with each other toward mutual success, and it highlights areas for future research on intragroup conflict in these diverse organizational contexts.
Remodelling public sector services through Innovative work behaviour : the role of new public management and public sector awards
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Fairhurst, Keith; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Ntshebe, Nokulunga
This study investigates the dynamics of innovation within public sector organisations, focusing on how structured management practices and employee empowerment can enhance performance. Grounded in the New Public Management (NPM) framework and recognizing the role of Public Sector Awards in promoting innovative practices, the research highlights the urgency for innovative solutions in response to evolving societal needs, especially as public entities strive to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Utilizing qualitative interviews with public sector award recipients for innovative projects, the study reveals critical factors that facilitate Innovative Work Behaviour (IWB) while identifying significant barriers to its implementation. Key findings emphasize the importance of stakeholder collaboration, supportive leadership, and aligning performance measurement with citizen feedback. The study employs the business model canvas as a recommendation model to transform public sector service delivery, integrating NPM strategies to create a more private-sector-like efficiency and responsiveness. However, a notable limitation of this research is its lack of direct assessment of citizen satisfaction as an indicator of public sector effectiveness. Future research should explore this relationship more thoroughly, investigating how innovations translate into tangible improvements in citizen experiences. This research not only contributes to the understanding of innovation in public administration but also offers practical insights for enhancing service delivery, equipping public organisations to navigate complex challenges in a rapidly changing environment.
The influence of transformational leadership on the process of innovation in teams
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Mbokota, Gloria; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Xolo, Nokwazi Misiwe Letheni
This study delves into the factors influencing the process of innovation in teams, emphasising the importance of understanding transformational leaderships’ influence in an Information Technology and Communication (ICT) organisation, and applying Transformational Leadership Theory to test how specific leadership behaviours can drive creativity, collaboration, and innovative outcomes among team members. The study employed qualitative methods in a single-case study within the ICT sector, embracing an interpretivist philosophy with an inductive approach. The findings highlight the complexities that exist in transformational leadership and the influence this has on the process of innovation in teams within a single ICT organisation in South Africa. The study underscores the importance of collaboration, communication, feedback, and customer centricity amongst other factors in the process of innovation. In addition, the study revealed the benefits associated with a leaders’ actions and attributes that foster innovative thinking in teams. In addition, the study emphasises transformational leaderships’ role for driving employees’ empowerment, development, and motivation, driving a shared vision and goal in the workplace. Insights are provided into naturing collaboration with direct teams or cross collaboration in the organisation is far reaching in encouraging group thinking and buy-in in the process of innovation, placing emphasis on shared value. The research findings enhance one’s understanding of transformational leadership and the process of innovation in teams, especially in an ICT organisation, and they provide actionable guidance for effective leadership management and improved innovation performance.
An exploration of the influence of employee empowerment on organisational commitment in the pharmaceutical regulatory affairs environment
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Meintjes, Anel; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Themane, Moore Jane
As healthcare organisations continually encounter difficulty in remaining adaptable and competitive in delivering exceptional healthcare in the midst of intense competition, shifting regulatory landscape, and a shortage of essential service providers, it is critical that healthcare organisations adopt strategies that will retain key talent who are committed to the organisation, especially scarce healthcare professionals such as Regulatory Affairs (RA) Pharmacists in the pharmaceutical organisations. By examining how both structural and psychological empowerment affects employee commitment to the organisation, this research sought to enhance the understanding of the various empowerment factors that influence the commitment of RA pharmacists in the pharmaceutical industry and to tackle the issue of turnover among these professionals. The research employed an exploratory qualitative approach to acquire a more profound understanding and insight of the structural and psychological empowerment factors that influence the organisational commitment of regulatory affairs pharmacists. A total of sixteen semi-structured interviews were used to gather data with RA Pharmacists occupying various roles in pharmaceutical organisations to gain further insights. The research resulted in the identification of additional parameters that pharmaceutical organisations could utilise to enhance the structural and psychological empowerment of RA pharmacists, which would contribute to organisational commitment and the ultimate achievement of organisational goals.
Exploring how experience-based learning impacts hybrid entrepreneurship
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Myres, Kerrin; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Nomnqa, Nomakhosazana
The rising phenomenon of hybrid entrepreneurship, which is defined as the undertaking of entrepreneurial activities in conjunction with paid work, is the focal point of this study. It is a consequence of a shifting job market. Previous studies have found that businesses started by hybrid entrepreneurs are more likely to survive than traditional ones. This encouraged the undertaking of this study to investigate which mode of entry into business supports the perseverance of entrepreneurial activities and which will be more beneficial in refining and propagating success among entrepreneurs. This study further sought to understand the influence and impact of experiential learning on the different types of entrepreneurs by investigating the ramifications of experience-based learning on each type of entrepreneur. The adoption of an inductive qualitative approach allowed for data to be collected, using semi-structured interviews with a sample consisting of hybrid, traditional, transitioned, and transitioned entrepreneurs. Through narrative inquiry, the entrepreneurial journey and learning experience of each type of entrepreneur were captured. The findings of this research were demonstrated by building a framework which identified three factors that drive experiential learning in the hybrid phase, which include critical events, conducive learning platforms, the industry of work and business activity, and lastly, the background foundation of the entrepreneur. All these factors added together increase the experiential learning of the entrepreneur, thus driving the hybrid entrepreneur to exit the hybrid phase and enter into full-time business. Once in full-time business, a set of new skills and learnings are acquired, which inform the entrepreneur to diversify their business portfolio. This study contributes to the increasing body of knowledge of hybrid entrepreneurship, which brings to light how this type of entrepreneurship results in the longevity of businesses, thus making it necessary to promote and bring awareness to potential business owners.
Loyalty programmes as a predictor of customer retention in retail banking sector : a multiple mediation analysis of brand association and customer satisfaction
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Fourie, Sonja; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Nkosi, Xolani Mfundo
Loyalty programmes have made significant inroads in the retail banking sector and companies have reported spending billions of rands on these programmes since inception. Despite this popularity, their effectiveness in driving customer behaviour, such as customer retention, remains divergent among both academics and practitioners. Studies are being pursued to discover what differentiates successful ones from unsuccessful ones. Purpose This study aimed to determine whether loyalty programme perceived benefits predict/drive customer retention and assess the mediation effect of overall customer satisfaction and brand association in South Africa’s retail banking sector. Design/Methodology/Approach The study used a descripto-explanatory research approach where data was collected using electronic self-administered surveys comprising a sample of 205 banked, adult individuals who are using loyalty programmes. Structural equation modelling (SEM) through IBM SPSS AMOS29 was used to analyse the data in the hypothesis testing. Findings The empirical analysis using SEM confirmed that only exploration and recognition of perceived benefits of loyalty programmes have a significant impact on customer retention. However, the impact of both these perceived benefits were negative with a very small correlation to customer retention, indicating that the impact can is negligible. Moreover, monetary savings, social benefits, and entertainment were found not to have any significant predictive power on customer retention. Furthermore, mediation analysis was performed and established that only brand association fully mediates the relationship between loyalty programmes’ perceived benefits and customer retention.
The relationship between risk perception and access to climate finance
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Bussin, Mark; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Windvoel, Khwezikazi
This study aims to clarify the relationship between risk perception and access to climate finance in Sub-Saharan African emerging economies. Information asymmetry and country risk are used as proxies to operationalise risk perception. It proposes a framework that illustrates the interaction between these independent variables to influence climate finance flows and outlines the importance of effective governance and transparency. The study is intended to expand the discourse on climate finance by providing an understanding of the nuances and barriers that emerging countries face in attracting climate investments. Research Design, approach and methodology - Through a quantitative research design, the study uses multiple regression analysis to examine secondary data collected from various SSA countries. Literature on risk perception, information asymmetry, and country risk complement this data to provide a comprehensive view of the factors affecting access to climate finance. Findings - The study reveals significant relationships between the variables, showing that higher risk perception negatively impacts access to climate finance, while improved information transparency positively correlates with increased finance flows. Additionally, findings show how low country risk enhances investor confidence. Limitations - Due to the quantitative nature of the study, findings may overlook crucial qualitative aspects that affect access. Therefore, recommendations are made for future research to explore these dynamics using qualitative approaches. Practical Implications - The paper provides actionable recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance governance frameworks and robustness in data transparency to mitigate perceived risks. Value - This study contributes to literature by filling a gap in the understanding of perceived risk and its influence on climate finance access, laying a foundation for future research and practical applications for improving climate finance flow.
The factors influencing consumers’ e-waste recycling intention : a cross-generational study
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Erasmus, Alet; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Vermeulen, Victoria
Electronic waste (e-waste) is a real-world problem and is being generated at an alarming pace; its generation is projected to outpace solid waste. Electronic devices are becoming more accessible, and new technologies are emerging rapidly, increasing consumer consumption. This increased consumption is leading to a surge in the generation of e-waste. Consumer disposal methods are primarily unsustainable, which poses a significant risk to human health and the environment, threatening resource conservation due to the hazardous nature of e-waste. This research aimed to determine the factors influencing consumer e-waste recycling intentions across generational cohorts. Intentions drive behaviours and represent the motivation to engage in specific behaviours, making it crucial to understand the factors influencing consumers’ e-waste recycling intentions and how intentions differ across generations. The Theory of Planned Behaviour theoretically anchored this study, and the research questions and hypotheses were formulated based on the expanded Theory of Planned Behaviour, which directed the study in terms of data gathering and data analysis. To address the research problem/question, this study adopted a quantitative mono-method approach aligned with previous studies investigating similar quantitative relationships. A non-probability sampling technique was used, and the final data collected and analysed was based on 252 valid respondents. The study’s results revealed that environmental attitude, subjective norms and awareness of consequences were major influences on consumers’ e-waste recycling intention. In contrast, marketing campaigns and consumer recycling confidence did not influence consumers’ e-waste recycling intentions. Substantial differences were found among the generational cohorts regarding their e-waste recycling intention. Baby Boomers had a relatively higher inclination to recycle e-waste.
Renewable energy finance accessibility for empowering SMMEs participation in the energy sector
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Ramparsad, Sherin; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Spani, Noluvuyo
Given South Africa need for sustainable energy solutions, and access to reliable energy studying the role of project finance in supporting SMMEs is essential. Accessible renewable energy finance for Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) has become increasingly important as SMMEs businesses play an important role in encouraging sustainable energy solutions. This study aims to understand the barriers that SMMEs face in securing funding for renewable energy projects, despite their potential contributions to the sector. Existing literature highlights various challenges, including limited access to capital, skills shortages, and complex regulatory frameworks, yet it often overlooks the nuanced experiences of SMMEs. To address this gap, a qualitative, exploratory research approach was employed, involving 12 semi-structured interviews with SMME representatives, financial institutions, and industry experts. The findings reveal that positive outcomes for SMMEs in the renewable energy sector are achievable when financial products are tailored to their needs and when there is strong collaboration among stakeholders. Additionally, SMMEs that possess innovative capabilities, and a clear understanding of market demands are better positioned to navigate the challenges they face The research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on renewable energy finance in providing insights into the factors that enable SMMEs to overcome barriers and succeed in the sector, underlining the importance of project finance together with supportive models, partnerships to enable sustainable energy development.
Exploring the role of customer orientation - a look at successful SMEs in the South African mining industry
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Ntshakala, Thembekile; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Nkomo, Thabile Monica
Small to medium enterprises (SMEs) are an integral part of developing economies as they play a significant role in driving economic growth. South African SMEs are facing numerous challenges that are making it difficult for them to realize long-term success. The contributions to this are both at a macroeconomic level as well as an entrepreneurial skill level. This study focused on the latter with the aim of contributing to studies that investigate how SMEs can improve their chances of long-term success. An important enabler of long-term success is the ability to attain and maintain a competitive advantage as an SME. Customer-orientation strategies are regarded as fundamental in this regard. This study focused on successful South African SMEs operating in the mining industry and explored whether customer orientation plays a role in their success. These SMEs were defined as successful in that they have managed to operate for a fairly long time, considering the failure points of South African SMEs. The study found that these SMEs implement customer-orientation strategies in how they operate their businesses and that these strategies contribute to their success. It was also found that customer orientation assists in the attainment of a competitive advantage, along with other strategies. This study contributes academically in that it conducted research in an area that is understudied within the South African SME and mining industry context. It also contributes to businesses by providing guidance for other SMEs in this sector on strategies that can be employed to improve their chances of long-term success.
Relationship between leadership support and technology adoption in the finance workforce
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Konar, Len; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Wessels, Philippus
The study examines perceived leadership support as a driver of technology adoption within the finance workforce, with employee engagement as a mediator. Technological advancements are rapidly affecting the finance workforce today, and such transformations can only be wrought with supportive leadership and highly engaged employees. While considerable prior research has examined how leadership and engagement spur technology adoption, only some have specified how their interactions unfold in the finance industry, uniquely positioned to embrace digital transformation. This research investigates perceived leadership support, employee engagement’s mediating role, and technology adoption in the finance workforce. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 174 finance workforce, and the data were analysed using multiple linear regression to understand the strength and nature of relationships between these constructs. Results reveal that perceived leadership support significantly fosters technology adoption, with employee engagement fully mediating this relationship, indicating that leadership’s influence on adoption is enhanced through increased engagement levels. These findings thus bring awareness that leaders who actively promote employee engagement create conditions for technology adoption. The current study offers insights for leaders and managers in finance regarding the requirement for engagement-driven leadership approaches in facilitating digital transitions. Future research could apply these findings to other sectors or investigate specific technologies for further insights into how leadership strategies can be optimised for technology adoption.
Unlocking the potential of impact investing in sustainable entrepreneurship : a South African focus
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Myres, Kerrin; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Segwe, Gaone Omolemo Zebuleon
This study explores how impact investments can support sustainable entrepreneurship in South Africa by balancing financial returns with positive social and environmental impact. The research, which includes interviews with impact investing experts and sustainable entrepreneurs, finds a common commitment to both financial and social goals, but it also identifies a need for stronger alignment on mission priorities, particularly in terms of impact measurement. Entrepreneurs frequently lack formal mechanisms for measuring impact, whereas investors struggle to establish consistent benchmarks across multiple sectors. The study emphasizes entrepreneurs demand for more comprehensive support, such as access to networks and technical assistance. Entrepreneurs, on the other hand, view governance systems, particularly investor board engagement, as restricting, emphasizing the importance of adaptive investment partnerships. The study also looks at the risks and rewards of impact investing, showing that, while investors face financial, regulatory, and impact assessment risks, they also see significant environmental, social, and economic benefits. This alignment of goals between investors and entrepreneurs is a possible avenue for South Africa's long-term economic success. Key recommendations include developing blended financing models in venture capital to close the funding gap for early-stage sustainable businesses. By improving these models and refining support tactics, impact investments can better match financial and social missions, allowing sustainable entrepreneurship to generate significant societal change and economic development in South Africa.

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