Intercultural Leadership and Innovation: The interaction between Personality and Cultural Factors with a Specific Focus on Contemporary and Future Developments

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship and interaction between leadership behavior, personality factors, intercultural considerations, and innovation. Drawing upon theoretical foundations from cross-cultural research, personality psychology, resource-based view, new institutional and transaction cost economics, as well as insights from New Work, Innovation and Sustainability research. A robust framework of previous studies and publications (published primarily in journals such as Creativity and Innovation Management and Cross-Cultural Research) and empirical data from n = 33 and n = 55 countries supports our research. Subsequently, a novel lens has been created focusing on contemporary innovation-related developments, particularly those related to digitalization such as artificial intelligence (AI) and decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). Through this lens, we derive theoretical and practical implications across micro, meso and macro) levels. At the micro level, we explore the impact of leadership behavior and personality on innovation, especially in the context of digital advancements. Moving to the meso level, we examine the implications for organizational structures, including network organizations, DAOs, hierarchies, and transaction costs, offering insights into the evolving nature of firms. Finally, at the macro level, we discuss broader implications encompassing resources, sustainability, and the holistic socio-economic and ecological landscape. The paper concludes by providing practical applications of our findings, offering actionable insights for leaders, organizations, and policymakers.

Presenters

Robert Rossberger
Professor, Business School, AKAD University, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

2025 Special Focus—Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity: Navigating Intercultural Leadership

KEYWORDS

Culture, Leadership, Innovation, Personality, New Work, Sustainability, Digitalization, AI, DAO