How does leadership competence contribute to organizational performance? A review of the literature

Authors: Bond, C., sheppard, Z. and Tee, S.R.

Conference: Seventh FMIC Annual International Scientific Conference “Healthy Lives and Well-being for All”

Dates: 5 August 2017

Abstract:

Objectives: The aim of the review was to establish the components of leadership competence and its effect on the performance of health organisations in developing countries.

Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were set. Research papers were synthesized and the quality of research papers was assessed using Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) and Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) to determine the scope and strength of the evidence. Results: The findings suggest that managers do not receive adequate training on important aspects of leadership and management, including human resource management, financial management and planning capacity, which impacts negatively on their capability and work performance. Consequently, they do not create supportive and enabling work environments for employees, which in turn limits the performance of staff and the performance of health organisations. Whilst it is a complex picture involving many other socio-cultural, political, economic, systemic and structural factors, leadership capacity appears to be an important part of the solution towards greater health system effectiveness. Conclusions: Policy makers and the international community in developing countries should take note of these emerging trends in their consideration of future management systems and the performance of health organisations. Those with responsibility for organisational effectiveness need to invest in their staff and support development and capacity building in order to deliver higher quality health systems that have impact on health outcomes in developing countries. The researcher, doing her PhD program is aiming to explore the enablers and barriers faced by leaders in the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) in Afghanistan toward the achievement of their organisational goals. The findings will help the Health Ministry and policy makers to consider those factors in their strategic plan and work on them toward improvement. This will also help the donors and development partners in their support of the MoPH.

Source: Manual