Log in

Ambidextrous leadership: an emphasis on the mediating role of knowledge sharing and knowledge search

  • Original Research
  • Published:
Annals of Operations Research Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Innovation is widely being recognized as a crucial determinant of organizations’ competitive advantage. This study delves into ambidextrous leadership, encompassing two seemingly contrasting yet potentially complementary behaviors—opening and closing leadership. The aim is to elucidate how a leader can pave the way for achieving innovation among employees, and throughout the entire organization by leveraging the dual strategies of knowledge sharing and knowledge search. This research is descriptive in nature, grounded in a positivist research philosophy with an applied research orientation. The proposed research strategy involves a survey employing quantitative methods. Ambidextrous leadership characterized by both opening and closing approaches has the potential to enhance employees’ innovation through knowledge sharing. Furthermore, the proposed study reveals that ambidextrous leadership encompassing Transactional and Transformational leadership styles fosters organizational innovation through knowledge search. As social information processing technology is being updated continuously, leaders’ demonstration on both the opening and closing behaviors can drive innovation at both employee and organizational levels. Moreover, the mediating roles of knowledge sharing and knowledge seeking are vital to achieve these outcomes. However, the eighth hypothesis which explores the moderating influence of strategic flexibility does not yield significant results. A balanced strategy between these dual roles is more innovative and adaptive organizational culture.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Subscribe and save

Springer+ Basic
EUR 32.99 /Month
  • Get 10 units per month
  • Download Article/Chapter or Ebook
  • 1 Unit = 1 Article or 1 Chapter
  • Cancel anytime
Subscribe now

Buy Now

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
Fig. 4

Similar content being viewed by others

Data availability

Data are included in the manuscript.

References

  • Ab Hamid, M. R., Sami, W., & Sidek, M. M. (2017). Discriminant validity assessment: Use of fornell & larcker criterion versus HTMT criterion. Journal of Physics: Conf. Series, 890, 012163.

    Google Scholar 

  • Adler, P. S., Goldoftas, B., & Levine, D. I. (1999). Flexibility versus efficiency? A case study of model changeovers in the Toyota production system. Organization Science, 10(1), 43–68.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Agarwal, U. (2014). Examining the impact of social exchange relationships on innovative work behaviour: Role of work engagement. Team Performance Management, 20(3/4), 102–120.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ahlin, B., Drnovšek, M., & Hisrich, R. D. (2014). Entrepreneurs’ creativity and firm innovation: The moderating role of entrepreneurial self-efficacy. Small Business Economics, 43(1), 101–117.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ahmad, B., Liu, D., Asif, M. H., Ashfaq, M., & Irfan, M. (2022). Ambidextrous leadership and service recovery performance under B2B selling context: An examination through service innovation capability. SAGE Open, 12(2), 21582440221096456.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Akıncı, G., Alpkan, L., Yıldız, B., & Karacay, G. (2022). The link between ambidextrous leadership and innovative work behavior in a military organization: The moderating role of climate for innovation. Sustainability, 14(22), 15315–15334.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Akram, T., Lei, S., Haider, M. J., & Hussain, S. T. (2020). The impact of organizational justice on employee innovative work behavior: Mediating role of knowledge sharing. Journal of Innovation & Knowledge, 5(2), 117–129.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Alameri, M., Ameen, A., Khalifa, G. S., Alrajawy, I., & Bhaumik, A. (2019). The mediating effect of creative self-efficacy on the relation between empowering leadership and organizational innovation. Revolution, 4(5), 1938–1946.

    Google Scholar 

  • Alawamleh, M., Al-Twal, A., Lahlouh, L., & Jame, R. O. (2023). Interpretive structural modelling of organizational innovation factors: An emerging market perspective. Journal of Open Innovation: Technology, Market, and Complexity, 9(2), 100067.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Alghamdi, F. (2018). Ambidextrous leadership, ambidextrous employee, and the interaction between ambidextrous leadership and employee innovative performance. Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, 7(1), 1–14.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Alpkan, L., & Gemici, E. (2016). Disruption and Ambidexterity: How innovation strategies evolve? Procedia-Social and Behavioural Sciences, 235, 782–787.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Alzghoul, A., Khaddam, A. A., Alshaar, Q., & Irtaimeh, H. J. (2024). Impact of knowledge-oriented leadership on innovative behavior, and employee satisfaction: The mediating role of knowledge-centered culture for sustainable workplace. Business Strategy & Development, 7(1), e304.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Anderson, N., Potočnik, K., & Zhou, J. (2014). Innovation and creativity in organizations: A state-of-the-science review, prospective commentary, and guiding framework. Journal of Management, 40(5), 1297–1333.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Asad, M., Aledeinat, M., Majali, T. E., Almajali, D. A., & Shrafat, F. D. (2024). Mediating role of green innovation and moderating role of resource acquisition with firm age between green entrepreneurial orientation and performance of entrepreneurial firms. Cogent Business & Management, 11(1), 2291850.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ashfaq, F., Abid, G., Ilyas, S., & Hasnain, A. (2021). How transformational leadership influences innovative behaviour: The mediating role of psychological empowerment and proactivity of employees. Independent Journal of Management & Production, 12(1), 241–264.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ashiru, J. A., Erdil, G. E., & Oluwajana, D. (2022). The linkage between high performance work systems on organizational performance, employee voice and employee innovation. Journal of Organizational Change Management, 35(1), 1–17.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Avolio, B. J., Waldman, D. A., & Einstein, W. O. (1988). Transformational leadership in a management game simulation: Impacting the bottom line. Group & Organization Studies, 13(1), 59–80.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bäckström, I., & Bengtsson, L. (2019). A map** study of employee innovation: Proposing a research agenda. European Journal of Innovation Management, 22(3), 468–492.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bagheri, M., Mitchelmore, S., Bamiatzi, V., & Nikolopoulos, K. (2019). Internationalization orientation in SMEs: The mediating role of technological innovation. Journal of International Management, 25(1), 121–139.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bai, D., & Yu, H. (2017). Knowledge management impacts on organizational innovation performance. International Journal of Innovative Computing, Information and Control, 13(6), 2133–2141.

    Google Scholar 

  • Bamel, U. K., & Bamel, N. (2018). Organizational resources, KM process capability and strategic flexibility: A dynamic resource-capability perspective. Journal of Knowledge Management, 22(7), 1555–1572.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bamiatzi, V., Jones, S., Mitchelmore, S., & Nikolopoulos, K. (2015). The role of competencies in sha** the leadership style of female entrepreneurs: The case of North West of England, Y Orkshire, and North Wales. Journal of Small Business Management, 53(3), 627–644.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Baregheh, A., Rowley, J., & Sambrook, S. (2009). Towards a multidisciplinary definition of innovation. Management Decision, 47(8), 1323–1339.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bartol, K. M., & Srivastava, A. (2002). Encouraging knowledge sharing: The role of organizational reward systems. Journal of Leadership & Organizational Studies, 9(1), 64–76.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Berraies, S., & Zine El Abidine, S. (2019). Do leadership styles promote ambidextrous innovation? Case of knowledge-intensive firms. Journal of Knowledge Management, 23(5), 836–859.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bhatti, S. H., Santoro, G., Sarwar, A., & Pellicelli, A. C. (2021). Internal and external antecedents of open innovation adoption in I.T. organizations: Insights from an emerging market. Journal of Knowledge Management, 25(7), 1726–1744.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Birkinshaw, J., Hamel, G., & Mol, M. J. (2008). Management innovation. Academy of Management Review, 33(4), 825–845.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bledow, R., Frese, M., & Mueller, V. (2011). Ambidextrous leadership for innovation: The influence of culture. Advances in global leadership (pp. 41–69). Emerald Group Publishing Limited.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Bocken, N. M., & Geradts, T. H. (2020). Barriers and drivers to sustainable business model innovation: Organization design and dynamic capabilities. Long Range Planning, 53(4), 101950.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bodlaj, M., Kadic-Maglajlic, S., & Vida, I. (2020). Disentangling the impact of different innovation types, financial constraints and geographic diversification on SMEs’ export growth. Journal of Business Research, 108, 466–475.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Boekhorst, J. A. (2015). The role of authentic leadership in fostering workplace inclusion: A social information processing perspective. Human Resource Management, 54(2), 241–264.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bos-Nehles, A. C., & Veenendaal, A. A. (2019). Perceptions of HR practices and innovative work behavior: The moderating effect of an innovative climate. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 30(18), 2661–2683.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Brozovic, D. (2018). Strategic flexibility: A review of the literature. International Journal of Management Reviews, 20(1), 3–31.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bucher, J., Burmeister, A., Osland, J. S., & Deller, J. (2022). The influence of empowering leadership on repatriate knowledge transfer: Understanding mechanisms and boundary conditions. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 33(7), 1437–1462.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Caner, T., & Tyler, B. B. (2015). The effects of knowledge depth and scope on the relationship between R & D alliances and new product development. Journal of Product Innovation Management, 32(5), 808–824.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Castenda, D. I., & Cueller, S. (2020). Knowledge sharing and innovation: A systematic review. Knowledge and Process Management, 27(3), 159–173.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Castro, M. P., & Guimaraes, T. A. (2020). Dimensions that influence the innovation process in justice organizations. Innovation & Management Review, 17(2), 215–231.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Chai, S. (2017). Near misses in the breakthrough discovery process. Organization Science, 28(3), 411–428.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Chang, Y. Y., & Hughes, M. (2012). Drivers of innovation ambidexterity in small-to medium-sized firms. European Management Journal, 30(1), 1–17.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Chen, Z., Takeuchi, R., & Shum, C. (2013). A social information processing perspective of coworker influence on a focal employee. Organization Science, 24(6), 1618–1639.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Choi, S. B., Kim, K., Ullah, S. E., & Kang, S. W. (2016). How transformational leadership facilitates innovative behavior of Korean workers: Examining mediating and moderating processes. Personnel Review, 45(3), 459–479.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Cochran, W. G. (1963). Sampling techniques. Wiley.

    Google Scholar 

  • Cohen, J. (1988). Statistical power analysis for the behavioral sciences (2nd ed.). Hillside, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.

    Google Scholar 

  • Cohen, W. M., & Levinthal, D. A. (1990). Absorptive capacity: A new perspective on learning and innovation. Administrative Science Quarterly, 35(1), 128–152.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Cronbach, L. J. (1951). Coefficient alpha and the internal structure of tests. Psychometrika, 16(3), 297–334.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Dai, Y., Goodale, J. C., Byun, G., & Ding, F. (2018). Strategic flexibility in new high-technology ventures. Journal of Management Studies, 55(2), 265–294.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2008). Self-determination theory: A macro theory of human motivation, development, and health. Canadian Psychology/psychologie Canadienne, 49(3), 182–185.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Delice, A. (2010). The Sampling Issues in Quantitative Research. Educational Sciences: Theory and Practice, 10(4), 2001–2018.

    Google Scholar 

  • Deng, W., Hubner-Benz, S., Frese, M., & Song, Z. (2023). Different ways lead to ambidexterity: Configurations for team innovation across China, India, and Singapore. Journal of International Management, 29(3), 101027.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Duan, Y., Liu, S., Mu, C., Liu, X., Cheng, E., & Liu, Y. (2023). The moderating effect of managerial discretion on cross-border knowledge search and the innovation quality of high-tech firms in a global health emergency: Evidence from China. Journal of Knowledge Management, 27(1), 121–155.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Duc, L. A., Tho, N. D., Nakandala, D., & Lan, Y. C. (2020). Team innovation in retail services: The role of ambidextrous leadership and team learning. Service Business, 14(1), 167–186.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Duradoni, M., & Di Fabio, A. (2019). Intrapreneurial self-capital and sustainable innovative behaviour within organizations. Sustainability, 11(2), 322.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Eggers, W., Baker, L., Gonzalez, R., & Vaughn, A. (2012). Disruptive innovation: A new model for public sector services. Strategy & Leadership, 40(3), 17–24.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ehls, D., Polier, S., & Herstatt, C. (2020). Reviewing the field of external knowledge search for innovation: Theoretical underpinnings and future (re-) search directions. Journal of Product Innovation Management, 37(5), 405–430.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Eriksson, P. E., Patel, P. C., Sjödin, D. R., Frishammar, J., & Parida, V. (2016). Managing inter-organizational innovation projects: Mitigating the negative effects of equivocality through knowledge search strategies. Long Range Planning, 49(6), 691–705.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Fernández-Pérez, V., José Verdú-Jóver, A., & Benitez-Amado, J. (2013). Managerial social networks and strategic flexibility: The role of strategic orientation. Personnel Review, 42(2), 134–153.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Flor, M. L., Cooper, S. Y., & Oltra, M. J. (2018). External knowledge search, absorptive capacity and radical innovation in high-technology firms. European Management Journal, 36(2), 183–194.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Fornell, C., & Larcker, D. F. (1981). Evaluating structural equation models with unobservable variables and measurement error. Journal of Marketing Research, 18(1), 39–50.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Frear, K. A., Donsbach, J., Theilgard, N., & Shanock, L. R. (2018). Supported supervisors are more supportive, but why? A multilevel study of mechanisms and outcomes. Journal of Business and Psychology, 33, 55–69.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Gebert, D., Boerner, S., & Kearney, E. (2010). Fostering team innovation: Why is it important to combine opposing action strategies? Organization Science, 21(3), 593–608.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Gerlach, F., Hundeling, M., & Rosing, K. (2020). Ambidextrous leadership and innovation performance: A longitudinal study. Leadership & Organization Development Journal, 41(3), 383–398.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Gibson, C. B., & Birkinshaw, J. (2004). The antecedents, consequences, and mediating role of organizational ambidexterity. Academy of Management Journal, 47(2), 209–226.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Goli, A., Ala, A., & Mirjalili, S. (2023). A robust possibilistic programming framework for designing an organ transplant supply chain under uncertainty. Annals of Operations Research, 328(1), 493–530.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Gui, L., Lei, H., & Le, P. B. (2022). Determinants of radical and incremental innovation: The influence of transformational leadership, knowledge sharing and knowledge-centered culture. European Journal of Innovation Management, 25(5), 1221–1241.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Gupta, S., & Shabbir, J. (2008). On improvement in estimating the population mean in simple random sampling. Journal of Applied Statistics, 35(5), 559–566.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Haider, S. A., Zubair, M., Tehseen, S., Iqbal, S., & Sohail, M. (2023). How does ambidextrous leadership promote innovation in project-based construction companies? Through mediating role of knowledge-sharing and moderating role of innovativeness. European Journal of Innovation Management, 26(1), 99–118.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Hair, J.F., Hult, G.T.M., Ringle, C.M., Sarstedt, M. & Danks, N.P., (2021). An introduction to structural equation modeling. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) using R: a workbook, pp. 1–29.

  • Hair, J. F., Jr., Sarstedt, M., Matthews, L. M., & Ringle, C. M. (2016). Identifying and treating unobserved heterogeneity with FIMIX-PLS: Part I–method. European Business Review, 28(1), 63–76.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Harandi, A., & Mirzaeiankhamseh, P. (2023). Can Perceived Overqualification lead to increased Cyberloafing? An Emphasis on Mediating Role of Emotional Exhaustion. Interdisciplinary Journal of Management Studies (Formerly known as Iranian Journal of Management Studies).

  • He, Z. L., & Wong, P. K. (2004). Exploration vs. exploitation: An empirical test of the ambidexterity hypothesis. Organization Science, 15(4), 481–494.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Henseler, J., Ringle, C. M., & Sarstedt, M. (2015). A new criterion for assessing discriminant validity in variance-based structural equation modeling. Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science, 43, 115–135.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Henseler, J., Ringle, C. M., & Sinkovics, R. R. (2009). The use of partial least squares path modeling in international marketing. New challenges to international marketing (Vol. 20, pp. 277–319). Emerald Group Publishing Limited.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Herhausen, D., Morgan, R. E., Brozović, D., & Volberda, H. W. (2021). Re-examining strategic flexibility: A meta-analysis of its antecedents, consequences and contingencies. British Journal of Management, 32(2), 435–455.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Hou, N., Peng, J., & Nie, Q. (2022). The benefits of ambidextrous leadership behaviour for the workplace well-being of leaders. Current Psychology, 42(32), 28783–28798.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • https://www.bain.com/industry-expertise/technology/ assessed from 7/19/2023

  • https://www.mckinsey.com/about-us/new-at-mckinsey-blog/mobile-world-congress-2023 assessed from 7/19/2023

  • https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/technology-media-and-telecommunications/our-insights/the-technology-industry-in-2020-and-beyond assessed from 7/19/2023

  • Hu, W., Luo, J., Chen, Z., & Zhong, J. (2020). Ambidextrous leaders hel** newcomers get on board: Achieving adjustment and proaction through distinct pathways. Journal of Business Research, 118, 406–414.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Hughes, D. J., Lee, A., Tian, A. W., Newman, A., & Legood, A. (2018). Leadership, creativity, and innovation: A critical review and practical recommendations. The Leadership Quarterly, 29(5), 549–569.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Humayun, M., & Gang, C. (2013). Impact of leadership support on KMS-based knowledge seeking behavior: Lessons learned. Research Journal of Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology, 5(1), 218–223.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Jansen, J. J., Vera, D., & Crossan, M. (2009). Strategic leadership for exploration and exploitation: The moderating role of environmental dynamism. The Leadership Quarterly, 20(1), 5–18.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Javed, B., Khan, A. K., Arjoon, S., Mashkoor, M., & Haque, A. U. (2020). Openness to experience, ethical leadership, and innovative work behavior. The Journal of Creative Behavior, 54(1), 211–223.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Jia, R., Hu, W., & Li, S. (2022). Ambidextrous leadership and organizational innovation: The importance of knowledge search and strategic flexibility. Journal of Knowledge Management, 26(3), 781–801.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Jiang, J., Wang, S., & Zhao, S. (2012). Does HRM facilitate employee creativity and organizational innovation? A study of Chinese firms. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 23(19), 4025–4047.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • **g, Z., Hou, Q., Zhang, Y., & Zhao, Y. (2022). The relationship between female leadership traits and employee innovation performance—The mediating role of knowledge sharing. Sustainability, 14(11), 6739.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Jyoti, J., & Dev, M. (2015). The impact of transformational leadership on employee creativity: The role of learning orientation. Journal of Asia Business Studies, 9(1), 78–98.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kafetzopoulos, D., Psomas, E., & Bouranta, N. (2022). The influence of leadership on strategic flexibility and business performance: The mediating role of talent management. Management Decision, 60(9), 2532–2551.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kassotaki, O. (2019). Explaining ambidextrous leadership in the aerospace and defense organizations. European Management Journal, 37(5), 552–563.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Katila, R., & Ahuja, G. (2002). Something old, something new: A longitudinal study of search behaviour and new product introduction. Academy of Management Journal, 45(6), 1183–1194.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Krammer, S. M. (2022). Human resource policies and firm innovation: The moderating effects of economic and institutional context. Technovation, 110, 102366.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kung, C. W., Uen, J. F., & Lin, S. C. (2020). Ambidextrous leadership and employee innovation in public museums. Chinese Management Studies, 14(4), 995–1014.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Laser, J. (2022). Criteria to appraise top executives for ambidextrous leadership. Journal of Organizational Effectiveness: People and Performance, 9(3), 449–470.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Latham, J. R. (2014). Leadership for quality and innovation: Challenges, theories, and a framework for future research. Quality Management Journal, 21(1), 11–15.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Le, P. B., & Lei, H. (2019). Determinants of innovation capability: The roles of transformational leadership, knowledge sharing and perceived organizational support. Journal of Knowledge Management, 23(3), 527–547.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lee, J. Y., Taras, V., Jiménez, A., Choi, B., & Pattnaik, C. (2020). Ambidextrous knowledge sharing within R&D teams and multinational enterprise performance: The moderating effects of cultural distance in uncertainty avoidance. Management International Review, 60, 387–425.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lee, V. H., Foo, A. T. L., Leong, L. Y., & Ooi, K. B. (2016). Can competitive advantage be achieved through knowledge management? A case study on SMEs. Expert Systems with Applications, 65, 136–151.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lee, W. R., Choi, S. B., & Kang, S. W. (2021). How leaders’ positive feedback influences employees’ innovative behaviour: The mediating role of voice behaviour and job autonomy. Sustainability, 13(4), 1901–1913.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lei, H., Do, N. K., & Le, P. B. (2019). Arousing a positive climate for knowl-edge sharing through moral lens: The mediating roles of knowledge-centered and collaborative culture. Journal of Knowledge Management, 23(8), 1586–1604.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lei, H., Gui, L., & Le, P. B. (2021). Linking transformational leadership and frugal innovation: The mediating role of tacit and explicit knowledge sharing. Journal of Knowledge Management, 25(7), 1832–1852.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lei, H., Ha, A. T. L., & Le, P. B. (2020). How ethical leadership cultivates radical and incremental innovation: The mediating role of tacit and explicit knowledge sharing. Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, 35(5), 849–862.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Li, S., Jia, R., Seufert, J. H., Wang, X., & Luo, J. (2020). Ambidextrous leadership and radical innovative capability: The moderating role of leader support. Creativity and Innovation Management, 29(4), 621–633.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Li, Y., Li, P. P., Wang, H., & Ma, Y. (2017). How do resource structuring and strategic flexibility interact to shape radical innovation? Journal of Product Innovation Management, 34(4), 471–491.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lin, H. E., McDonough, E. F., III., Lin, S. J., & Lin, C. Y. Y. (2013). Managing the exploitation/exploration paradox: The role of a learning capability and innovation ambidexterity. Journal of Product Innovation Management, 30(2), 262–278.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ling, T. C., & Nasurdin, A. M. (2010). Human resource management practices and organizational innovation: An empirical study in Malaysia. Journal of Applied Business Research (JABR). https://doi.org/10.19030/jabr.v26i4.311

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Liu, M. L., Lin, C. P., Chen, M. L., Chen, P. C., & Chen, K. J. (2020). Strengthening knowledge sharing and job dedication: The roles of corporate social responsibility and ethical leadership. Leadership & Organization Development Journal, 41(1), 73–87.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Liu, Y., Wang, Y., Zhang, F., Liu, S., & Liu, P. (2023). Influence of team spiritual leadership on team green innovation performance from the perspective of social information processing. Current Psychology, 42(29), 25671–82.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lopes Henriques, P., Curado, C., Mateus Jerónimo, H., & Martins, J. (2019). Facing the dark side: How leadership destroys organizational innovation. Journal of Technology Management & Innovation, 14(1), 18–24.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lopez-Fresno, P., & Savolainen, T. (2019, September). Training Meetings: Not Mere Knowledge Sharing Perceived Socialising Function and Trust. In European Conference on Knowledge Management, pp. 691–XXVI. Academic Conferences International Limited.

  • Lorinkova, N. M., Pearsall, M. J., & Sims, H. P., Jr. (2013). Examining the differential longitudinal performance of directive versus empowering leadership in teams. Academy of Management Journal, 56(2), 573–596.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Luu, T. T., Dinh, K., & Qian, D. (2019). Ambidextrous leadership, entrepreneurial orientation and job crafting. European Business Review, 31(2), 260–282.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ma, J., Zhou, X., Chen, R., & Dong, X. (2019). Does ambidextrous leadership motivate work crafting? International Journal of Hospitality Management, 77, 159–168.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Manafi, M., & Subramaniam, I. D. (2015). Relationship between human resources management practices, transformational leadership, and knowledge sharing on innovation in Iranian electronic industry. Asian Social Science, 11(10), 358–385.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • March, J. G. (1991). Exploration and exploitation in organizational learning. Organization Science, 2(1), 71–87.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Masa’deh, R. E., Obeidat, B. Y., & Tarhini, A. (2016). A Jordanian empirical study of the associations among transformational leadership, transactional leadership, knowledge sharing, job performance, and firm performance: A structural equation modelling approach. Journal of management development, 35(5), 681–705.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Mascareño, J., Rietzschel, E. F., & Wisse, B. (2021). Ambidextrous leadership: Opening and closing leader behaviours to facilitate idea generation, idea promotion and idea realization. European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology, 30(4), 530–540.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Matthyssens, P., Pauwels, P., & Vandenbempt, K. (2005). Strategic flexibility, rigidity and barriers to the development of absorptive capacity in business markets: Themes and research perspectives. Industrial Marketing Management, 34(6), 547–554.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Miller, K. D., Zhao, M., & Calantone, R. J. (2006). Adding interpersonal learning and tacit knowledge to March’s exploration-exploitation model. Academy of Management Journal, 49(4), 709–722.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Mom, T. J., Van Den Bosch, F. A., & Volberda, H. W. (2009). Understanding variation in managers’ ambidexterity: Investigating direct and interaction effects of formal structural and personal coordination mechanisms. Organization Science, 20(4), 812–828.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Myers, M. B., & Cheung, M. S. (2008). Sharing global supply chain knowledge. MIT Sloan Management Review, 47(4), 67.

    Google Scholar 

  • Nadkarni, S., & Narayanan, V. K. (2007). Strategic schemas, strategic flexibility, and firm performance: The moderating role of industry clock speed. Strategic Management Journal, 28(3), 243–270.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Naqshbandi, M. M., & Jasimuddin, S. M. (2018). Knowledge-oriented leadership and open innovation: Role of knowledge management capability in France-based multinationals. International Business Review, 27(3), 701–713.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ndofor, H. A., & Levitas, E. (2004). Signaling the strategic value of knowledge. Journal of Management, 30(5), 685–702.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nelson, R. R., & Winter, S. G. (1982). An evolutionary theory of economic change. Nelson An Evolutionary Theory of Economic Change 1982. Belknap.

    Google Scholar 

  • Nestle, V., Täube, F. A., Heidenreich, S., & Bogers, M. (2019). Establishing open innovation culture in cluster initiatives: The role of trust and information asymmetry. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 146, 563–572.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ohly, S., Sonnentag, S., & Pluntke, F. (2006). Routinization, work characteristics and their relationships with creative and proactive behaviours. Journal of Organizational Behaviour: The International Journal of Industrial, Occupational and Organizational Psychology and Behaviour, 27(3), 257–279.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Olsen, C., & St George, D. M. M. (2004). Cross-sectional study design and data analysis. College Entrance Examination Board, 26(03), 2006.

    Google Scholar 

  • Oluwafemi, T. B., Mitchelmore, S., & Nikolopoulos, K. (2020). Leading innovation: Empirical evidence for ambidextrous leadership from U.K. high-tech SMEs. Journal of Business Research, 119, 195–208.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ononye, U. (2022). Linking tacit knowledge sharing to employee innovation with job thriving as a mediational factor: A public sector perspective. International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research, 9(2), 22–32.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ou, A. Y., Tsui, A. S., Kinicki, A. J., Waldman, D. A., **ao, Z., & Song, L. J. (2014). Humble chief executive officers’ connections to top management team integration and middle managers’ responses. Administrative Science Quarterly, 59(1), 34–72.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Parris, D. L., & Peachey, J. W. (2013). A systematic literature review of servant leadership theory in organizational contexts. Journal of Business Ethics, 113, 377–393.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Peng, J., Wang, Z., & Chen, X. (2019). Does self-serving leadership hinder team creativity? A moderated dual-path model. Journal of Business Ethics, 159, 419–433.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rangus, K., & Černe, M. (2019). The impact of leadership influence tactics and employee openness toward others on innovation performance. R&D Management, 49(2), 168–179.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rasheed, M. A., Shahzad, K., Conroy, C., Nadeem, S., & Siddique, M. U. (2017). Exploring the role of employee voice between high-performance work system and organizational innovation in small and medium enterprises. Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development, 24(4), 670–688.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rhee, J., Seog, S. D., Bozorov, F., & Dedahanov, A. T. (2017). Organizational structure and employees’ innovative behavior: The mediating role of empowerment. Social Behavior and Personality: An International Journal, 45(9), 1523–1536.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ricci, R., Battaglia, D., & Neirotti, P. (2021). External knowledge search, opportunity recognition and industry 4.0 adoption in SMEs. International Journal of Production Economics, 240, 108234.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rogers Everett, M. (1995). Diffusion of Innovations (p. 12). Routledge.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rosing, K., & Zacher, H. (2017). Individual ambidexterity: The duality of exploration and exploitation and its relationship with innovative performance. European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology, 26(5), 694–709.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rosing, K., Frese, M., & Bausch, A. (2011). Explaining the heterogeneity of the leadership-innovation relationship: Ambidextrous leadership. Leadership Quarterly, 22(5), 956–974.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ryan, J. C., & Tipu, S. A. (2013). Leadership effects on innovation propensity: A two-factor full range leadership model. Journal of Business Research, 66(10), 2116–2129.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Saeed, B. B., Afsar, B., Cheema, S., & Javed, F. (2019a). Leader-member exchange and innovative work behavior: The role of creative process engagement, core self-evaluation, and domain knowledge. European Journal of Innovation Management, 22(1), 105–124.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Saeed, B. B., Afsar, B., Hafeez, S., Khan, I., Tahir, M., & Afridi, M. A. (2019b). Promoting employee’s pro-environmental behaviour through green human resource management practices. Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management, 26(2), 424–438.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Salancik, G. R., & Pfeffer, J. (1978). A social information processing approach to job attitudes and task design. Administrative Science Quarterly, 23(2), 224–253.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sanchez, R. (1995). Strategic flexibility in product competition. Strategic Management Journal, 16(S1), 135–159.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sarstedt, M., Hair, J. F., Jr., Cheah, J. H., Becker, J. M., & Ringle, C. M. (2019). How to specify, estimate, and validate higher-order constructs in PLS-SEM. Australasian Marketing Journal, 27(3), 197–211.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sarstedt, M., Hair, J. F., Pick, M., Liengaard, B. D., Radomir, L., & Ringle, C. M. (2022). Progress in partial least squares structural equation modeling use in marketing research in the last decade. Psychology & Marketing, 39(5), 1035–1064.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sarstedt, M., Ringle, C. M., & Hair, J. F. (2021). Partial least squares structural equation modeling. Handbook of market research (pp. 587–632). Springer International Publishing.

    Google Scholar 

  • Savolainen, T. (2019, March). Trust and knowledge sharing in service business management. In Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Tourism Research, p. 282

  • Schaubroeck, J. M., Shen, Y., & Chong, S. (2017). A dual-stage moderated mediation model linking authoritarian leadership to follower outcomes. Journal of Applied Psychology, 102(2), 203–214.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Schumpeter, J. A., & Nichol, A. J. (1934). Robinson’s economics of imperfect competition. Journal of Political Economy, 42(2), 249–259.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Selvaraj, P., & Joseph, J. (2020). Employee voice implications for innovation in a deliberative environment context of Indian organizations. Personnel Review, 49(7), 1343–1361.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Shalley, C. E., & Gilson, L. L. (2004). What leaders need to know: A review of social and contextual factors that can foster or hinder creativity. The Leadership Quarterly, 15(1), 33–53.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Shao, Z., Wang, T., & Feng, Y. (2015). Impact of organizational culture and computer self-efficacy on knowledge sharing. Industrial Management & Data Systems, 115(4), 590–611.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sheehan, M., Garavan, T. N., & Morley, M. J. (2020). Transformational leadership and work unit innovation: A dyadic two-wave investigation. Journal of Business Research, 109, 399–412.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Shenkar, O., & Li, J. (1999). Knowledge search in international cooperative ventures. Organization Science, 10(2), 134–143.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Shi, X., Evans, R. D., & Shan, W. (2023). A Meta-Analysis Integrating External Knowledge Search Research: Antecedents, Consequences, and Boundary Conditions. IEEE Transactions on Engineering Management.

  • Shi, X., Zhang, Q., & Zheng, Z. (2019). The double-edged sword of external search in collaboration networks: Embeddedness in knowledge networks as moderators. Journal of Knowledge Management, 23(10), 2135–2160.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Singh, M., & Sarkar, A. (2012). The relationship between psychological empowerment and innovative behaviour. Journal of Personnel Psychology., 11(3), 127–137.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Smith, W. K., & Tushman, M. L. (2005). Managing strategic contradictions: A top management model for managing innovation streams. Organization Science, 16(5), 522–536.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sosik, J. J., Chun, J. U., & Zhu, W. (2014). Hang on to your ego: The moderating role of leader narcissism on relationships between leader charisma and follower psychological empowerment and moral identity. Journal of Business Ethics, 120, 65–80.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Stoffers, J., van der Heijden, B., & Schrijver, I. (2019). Towards a sustainable model of innovative work behaviors’ enhancement: The mediating role of employability. Sustainability, 12(1), 159.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sun, Y., Liu, J., & Ding, Y. (2020). Analysis of the relationship between open innovation, knowledge management capability and dual innovation. Technology Analysis & Strategic Management, 32(1), 15–28.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Taber, K. S. (2018). The use of Cronbach’s alpha when develo** and reporting research instruments in science education. Research in Science Education, 48, 1273–1296.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Tierney, P. (2008). Leadership and employee creativity. Handbook of organizational creativity, 95123.

  • Tirkolaee, E. B., Goli, A., Gütmen, S., Weber, G. W., & Szwedzka, K. (2023). A novel model for sustainable waste collection arc routing problem: Pareto-based algorithms. Annals of Operations Research, 324(1–2), 189–214.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Tolulope, B. O., Siwan, M., & Konstantinos, N. (2020). Leading innovation: empirical evidence for ambidextrous leadership from uk high-tech SMEs. Journal of Business Research, 119, 195–208.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Torres de Oliveira, R., Gentile-Lüdecke, S., & Figueira, S. (2022). Barriers to innovation and innovation performance: The mediating role of external knowledge search in emerging economies. Small Business Economics, 58(4), 1–22.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Úbeda-García, M., Cortés, E. C., Marco-Lajara, B., & Zaragoza-Sáez, P. (2014). Strategy, training and performance fit. International Journal of Hospitality Management, 42, 100–116.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Urbach, N., & Ahlemann, F. (2010). Structural equation modeling in information systems research using partial least squares. Journal of Information Technology Theory and Application (JITTA), 11(2), 2.

    Google Scholar 

  • Vaccaro, I. G., Jansen, J. J., Van Den Bosch, F. A., & Volberda, H. W. (2012). Management innovation and leadership: The moderating role of organizational size. Journal of Management Studies, 49(1), 28–51.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Venkataraman, S. (2002). Stakeholder value equilibration and the entrepreneurial process. The Ruffin Series of the Society for Business Ethics, 3, 45–57.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Voorhees, C. M., Brady, M. K., Calantone, R., & Ramirez, E. (2016). Discriminant validity testing in marketing: An analysis, causes for concern, and proposed remedies. Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science, 44(1), 119–134.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wadei, K. A., Chen, L., Frempong, J., & Appienti, W. A. (2021). The mediation effect of ethical leadership and creative performance: A social information processing perspective. The Journal of Creative Behaviour, 55(1), 241–254.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wadström, P. (2019). Aligning corporate and business strategy: Managing the balance. Journal of Business Strategy, 40(4), 44–52.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wang, C., Brunswicker, S., & Majchrzak, A. (2021). Knowledge search breadth and depth and OI projects performance: A moderated mediation model of control mechanism. Journal of Knowledge Management, 25(4), 847–870.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wang, C., Chin, T., & Lin, J. H. (2020). Openness and firm innovation performance: The moderating effect of ambidextrous knowledge search strategy. Journal of Knowledge Management, 24(2), 301–323.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wang, S., & Noe, R. A. (2010). Knowledge sharing: A review and directions for future research. Human Resource Management Review, 20(2), 115–131.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wang, Z., Sharma, P. N., & Cao, J. (2016). From knowledge sharing to firm performance: A predictive model comparison. Journal of Business Research, 69(10), 4650–4658.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • West, M. A. (2002). Sparkling fountains or stagnant ponds: An integrative model of creativity and innovation implementation in work groups. Applied Psychology, 51(3), 355–387.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wu, T. J., Sun, R., & Lin, Z. F. (2016). The empirical research of the relationship between internal social capital and relational psychological contract and employee’ innovation behavior. Journal of Interdisciplinary Mathematics, 19(4), 823–841.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • **ao, Y., Zhang, X., & Ordonez de Pablos, P. (2017). How does individuals’ exchange orientation moderate the relationship between transformational leadership and knowledge sharing? Journal of Knowledge Management, 21(6), 1622–1639.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • **u, L., Liang, X., Chen, Z., & Xu, W. (2017). Strategic flexibility, innovative HR practices, and firm performance: A moderated mediation model. Personnel Review, 46(7), 1335–1357.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Yang, F., Huang, X., & Wu, L. (2019). Experiencing meaningfulness climate in teams: How spiritual leadership enhances team effectiveness when facing uncertain tasks. Human Resource Management, 58(2), 155–168.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Yin, J., Ma, Z., Yu, H., Jia, M., & Liao, G. (2019). Transformational leadership and employee knowledge sharing: Explore the mediating roles of psychological safety and teamefficacy. Journal of Knowledge Management, 24(2), 150–171.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Yu, C., Yu, T. F., & Yu, C. C. (2013). Knowledge sharing, organizational climate, and innovative behavior: a cross-level analysis of effects. Social Behavior and Personality: An International Journal, 41(1), 143–156.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Yuan, H., & Ma, D. (2022). Gender differences in the relationship between interpersonal trust and innovative behaviour: The mediating effects of affective organizational commitment and knowledge-sharing. Behavioural Sciences, 12(5), 145–160.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Yuan, L., Zhongfeng, S., & Yi, L. (2010). Can strategic flexibility help firms profit from product innovation? Technovation, 30(5–6), 300–309.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Yukl, G., & Mahsud, R. (2010). Why flexible and adaptive leadership is essential. Consulting Psychology Journal: Practice and Research, 62(2), 81.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zacher, H., & Wilden, R. G. (2014). A daily diary study on ambidextrous leadership and self-reported employee innovation. Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, 87(4), 813–820.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zacher, H., & Rosing, K. (2015). Ambidextrous leadership and team innovation. Leadership & Organization Development Journal, 36(1), 54–68.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zacher, H., Robinson, A. J., & Rosing, K. (2016). Ambidextrous leadership and employees’ self-reported innovative performance: The role of exploration and exploitation behaviours. The Journal of Creative Behaviour, 50(1), 24–46.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zahra, S. A., Hayton, J. C., Neubaum, D. O., Dibrell, C., & Craig, J. (2008). Culture of family commitment and strategic flexibility: The moderating effect of stewardship. Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, 32(6), 1035–1054.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zander, U., & Kogut, B. (1995). Knowledge and the speed of the transfer and imitation of organizational capabilities: An empirical test. Organization Science, 6(1), 76–92.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zeffane, R., Tipu, S. A., & Ryan, J. C. (2011). Communication, commitment & trust: Exploring the triad. International Journal of Business and Management, 6(6), 77–87.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zhang, X., & Bartol, K. M. (2010). Linking empowering leadership and employee creativity: The influence of psychological empowerment, intrinsic motivation, and creative process engagement. Academy of Management Journal, 53(1), 107–128.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zhang, Y., Waldman, D. A., Han, Y. L., & Li, X. B. (2015). Paradoxical leader behaviours in people management: Antecedents and consequences. Academy of Management Journal, 58(2), 538–566.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zhang, Y., Zhang, X., & Zhang, H. (2022). The Influence of External Knowledge Searches on Enterprises’ Innovation Performance: A Meta-Analysis. Sustainability, 14(13), 8081.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zhang, Y., Zheng, J., & Darko, A. (2018). How does transformational leadership promote innovation in construction? The mediating role of innovation climate and the multilevel moderation role of project requirements. Sustainability, 10(5), 1506.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zhao, S., Jiang, Y., Peng, X., & Hong, J. (2021). Knowledge sharing direction and innovation performance in organizations: Do absorptive capacity and individual creativity matter? European Journal of Innovation Management, 24(2), 371–394.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zheng, J., Feng, C., **e, H., Zhao, X., & Wu, G. (2023). Ambidextrous leadership and innovative behaviours in construction projects: Dual-edged sword effects and social information processing perspective. Journal of Management in Engineering, 39(1), 04022070.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zhou, J., & Shalley, C. E. (2003). Research on employee creativity: A critical review and directions for future research. Research in Personnel and Human Resources Management (pp. 165–217). Emerald (MCB UP).

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Zhou, K. Z., & Wu, F. (2010). Technological capability, strategic flexibility, and product innovation. Strategic Management Journal, 31(5), 547–561.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zuraik, A., Kelly, L., & Perkins, V. (2020). Gender differences in innovation: The role of ambidextrous leadership of the team leads. Management Decision, 58(7), 1475–1495.

    Article  Google Scholar 

Download references

Funding

No funding was received for this study.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

Authors

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Shib Sankar Sana.

Ethics declarations

Competing interest

The authors declare that they do not have any conflict of interest.

Ethical approval

This article does not contain any studies with human participants or animals performed by any authors.

Additional information

Publisher's Note

Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Rights and permissions

Springer Nature or its licensor (e.g. a society or other partner) holds exclusive rights to this article under a publishing agreement with the author(s) or other rightsholder(s); author self-archiving of the accepted manuscript version of this article is solely governed by the terms of such publishing agreement and applicable law.

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Harandi, A., Khamseh, P.M. & Sana, S.S. Ambidextrous leadership: an emphasis on the mediating role of knowledge sharing and knowledge search. Ann Oper Res (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10479-024-06103-4

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10479-024-06103-4

Keywords

Navigation