Influence of evolving culture on leadership: a study of Fijian cooperatives

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine how leadership is shaped by a changing cultural context. Design/methodology/approach This is an exploratory study based on semi-structured interviews with leaders of Fijian cooperatives. Findings The political and cultural environment in Fiji has changed over time, and these changing arrangements shape expectations of what is considered to be appropriate leadership in Fijian cooperatives. To be consistent with changing societal values, leaders of Fijian cooperatives employ a context-sensitive hybrid leadership style in which legitimacy is an important dimension. Research implications Researchers need to examine the cultural context as a dynamic influencing element of leadership. Practical implications Leaders of cooperatives and similar values-based organizations would benefit from applying a legitimate and context-sensitive hybrid leadership style. Originality/value This study contributes new understandings of the cultural influences on organizational leadership.