Original Research

Transformational change leadership framework for implementing Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment in South African organisations

Corlé Grobler, René van Wyk, Mpho D. Magau
Acta Commercii | Vol 19, No 1 | a686 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/ac.v19i1.686 | © 2019 Corlé Grobler, René Van Wyk, Mpho Magau | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 04 July 2018 | Published: 30 April 2019

About the author(s)

Corlé Grobler, Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
René van Wyk, Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
Mpho D. Magau, Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract

Orientation: This multiple qualitative case study provides a change leadership framework through augmentation of Kotter’s eight-step change leadership model. This framework provides practical guidelines for the implementation of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE).

Research purpose: To establish a transformational change leadership framework for B-BBEE implementation, applying Kotter’s eight-step change leadership model.

Motivation for the study: It is not clear to what extent a transformational change leadership framework can be applied for the improved implementation of B-BBEE in South African organisations.

Research design, approach and method: This is a multiple qualitative case study with a constructivist philosophy. Sixteen organisations were purposively selected from the Top 100 rated Most Empowered Companies. Five B-BBEE transformation experts were selected for interviewing. The five participants were executives aged between 35 and 50 years: female (4), male (1), black people (2) and white people (3). Deductive thematic analysis was done using pre-defined themes and Kotter’s change leadership steps. Inductive perspectives were applied when new insights were gained.

Main findings: The transformational change leadership framework for the implementation of B-BBEE incorporated Kotter’s steps and additional essential elements.

Practical/managerial implications: The study proposes that a transformational change leadership framework could be used for implementing successful, sustainable B-BBEE in South Africa.

Contribution/value-add: Different elements contributed the B-BBEE transformational change leadership framework, namely: the role of leadership; leaders’ personal commitment, values and beliefs; and support in driving effective transformation. A willing culture seems essential for sustainable climate of change that leads to transformation maturity.


Keywords

B-BBEE; Kotter’s eight-step change model; transformational change; transformational leadership; sustained transformation; economic empowerment

Metrics

Total abstract views: 3955
Total article views: 4790


Crossref Citations

No related citations found.