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Being Pushed or Pulled? The Role of (In)voluntariness of Solo Self-Employed Individuals’ Career Path in Self-Fulfillment or Precariousness
The Digital Economy’s Contribution to Advancing Sustainable Economic Development

Journal Description

Administrative Sciences

Administrative Sciences is an international, peer-reviewed, scholarly, open access journal on organization studies published monthly online by MDPI.

Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), RePEc, EconBiz, and other databases.
Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Management) / CiteScore - Q2 (General Business, Management and Accounting)
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 29.1 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 4.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2024).
Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.

Impact Factor: 3.0 (2023); 5-Year Impact Factor: 3.0 (2023)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2076-3387

Latest Articles

29 pages, 1139 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Evaluating the Framework of the Notion Entrepreneurial Intention and Resilience: A Prisma Approach

by Ayesha Yaseen, Raflis Bin Che Omar, Lokhman Hakim Osman and Roshayati Binti Abdul Hamid

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060224 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2025

This study reviews various academic discussions utilising distinct interpretations of entrepreneurship and resilience. The inadequacies of contemporary literature are explored and avenues for subsequent studies are offered in light of these discussions. Notable shifts in literature across themes, eras, and contexts have been [...] Read more.

This study reviews various academic discussions utilising distinct interpretations of entrepreneurship and resilience. The inadequacies of contemporary literature are explored and avenues for subsequent studies are offered in light of these discussions. Notable shifts in literature across themes, eras, and contexts have been documented. The body of literature has been steadily expanding over time, with a significant portion of research included in this SLR published from 2010 to 2024, which was not considered in earlier SLRs. A methodical, multidisciplinary evaluation of 44 publications divided into multiple academic dialogues was conducted to lay the groundwork for critical examination of each field of study. Resilience in the modern era encompasses not only the power to bounce back from stressful situations and adjust to a changed environment but also the dynamic process to improve learning capacity and foster personal development through continuous self-improvement, the acquisition of novel experiences and a forward-leaping framework. These findings contribute to the clarification and critical analysis of the current state of entrepreneurial resilience which will have several policies implications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entrepreneurship for Economic Growth)

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30 pages, 434 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Charisma Heuristic as Cognitive Bias: An Informal Category Theoretic Risk Analysis of the Leadership Influence Process

by James K. Hazy

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 223; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060223 - 9 Jun 2025

The notion of charisma has been an important, albeit mysterious, aspect of leadership research for decades. Traditionally, its definition has centered on an individual who, by virtue of possessing certain traits, skills, or behaviors, is considered a natural leader. More recently, however, there [...] Read more.

The notion of charisma has been an important, albeit mysterious, aspect of leadership research for decades. Traditionally, its definition has centered on an individual who, by virtue of possessing certain traits, skills, or behaviors, is considered a natural leader. More recently, however, there has been increasing recognition that charisma is an experience that is actually felt by followers, and therefore perhaps the charisma experience could be better understood by taking a follower’s perspective. This theoretical article addresses this question. It takes the perspective of a follower who reports a charismatic experience and asks the following: What are the benefits and risks to the follower who, by assigning “charisma” to the influence of another, effectively surrenders a measure of individual autonomy by becoming a follower of a leader? This article uses ideas from mathematical category to explore and demystify the notion of charisma in leadership theory and practice. By doing so, it argues that the choice to follow what is considered to be a charismatic other is essentially a decision-making heuristic that carries benefits and risks. A benefit is decreased cognitive load. A risk is the possibility that the leader’s influence will push against a follower’s own interests. Thus, this paper argues that the charisma heuristic should be considered as cognitive bias about which both followers and leaders should be wary. Eight propositions are discussed to inform future research. Full article

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29 pages, 809 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Roles of Social Entrepreneur Competencies and Social Innovation in Sustainable Social Entrepreneurship in Thailand

by Nilubon Wirotthitiyawong, Natcha Limpasirisuwan, Atcharawan Thaodon, Warantorn Wimuttisuksuntorn and Thanapong Champahom

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060222 - 9 Jun 2025

This research examines social entrepreneur competencies and the ability to create value through social innovation, which affect sustainability in Thai social enterprises. The study used questionnaires administered to 200 social enterprises registered with the Social Enterprise Promotion Office. The data were analyzed using [...] Read more.

This research examines social entrepreneur competencies and the ability to create value through social innovation, which affect sustainability in Thai social enterprises. The study used questionnaires administered to 200 social enterprises registered with the Social Enterprise Promotion Office. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The results showed that social entrepreneur competencies had the highest overall mean among causal factors, while sustainability in social entrepreneur groups had a high mean level. The study found that visionary leadership was the strongest indicator of social entrepreneur competencies, marketing innovation was the strongest indicator of innovation capability, and environmental performance was the strongest indicator of sustainability outcomes. Social entrepreneur competencies strongly influenced the ability to create value through social innovation (β = 0.972), which in turn significantly affected sustainability outcomes (β = 0.707). The study’s limitations include its cross-sectional nature and its focus solely on registered social enterprises. These findings can guide policy formulation to help enterprises create value through social innovation and achieve sustainable success. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fostering Social Entrepreneurs in Organizations: Nurturing of Social Intrapreneurial Behaviors While Addressing Employees' Concerns)

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22 pages, 2882 KiB

Open AccessReview

Clothing Brands’ Sustainability Practices: A Bibliometric Approach

by Md Abu Hasan, Saurav Chandra Talukder, Zoltán Lakner and Ágoston Temesi

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 221; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060221 - 6 Jun 2025

The clothing industry greatly impacts the global economy by producing billions of pieces of clothing and employing millions. However, it negatively impacts the environment, as it is one of the most polluting sectors in the world. This bibliometric review aims to identify influential [...] Read more.

The clothing industry greatly impacts the global economy by producing billions of pieces of clothing and employing millions. However, it negatively impacts the environment, as it is one of the most polluting sectors in the world. This bibliometric review aims to identify influential authors and affiliations, journals, productive and cited countries, emerging and recent themes, and future research directions focusing on the dynamics of clothing brands’ sustainability practices. A comprehensive dataset from Scopus and the Web of Science contains 612 articles, and Biblioshiny and VOSviewer were used to analyze the data. Findings reveal that sustainability is not just a concern for developed countries but is also gaining attention in emerging economies like India. This bibliometric analysis presents its relationship with sustainable development goals (SDGs), combines performance analysis and science mapping of clothing brands’ sustainability practices, and evaluates thematic clusters to highlight future research scopes to fill the literature gap for further concentration on behavioral aspects, advanced supply chains, effective communication, and promoting the usage of sustainable technologies, which can help to align with business models for sustainability and resilience. Therefore, clothing brands’ sustainability practices should focus on smart and functional clothing through eco-friendly manufacturing and designing long-lasting clothes to enrich clothing performance. They should adopt innovative technologies for resource utilization, recycling, waste management, supply chain, and also emphasize communication with the consumers to encourage them to purchase eco-friendly and long-lasting clothes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Future of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Strategies That Connect Insights from Business, Stakeholders and the Environment)

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27 pages, 1082 KiB

Open AccessReview

An Assessment of the Roles of the Government, Regulators, and Investors in ESG Implementation in South Africa: A Scoping Review

by Wilfreda Indira Chawarura, Mabutho Sibanda and Kuziva Mamvura

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060220 - 5 Jun 2025

The purpose of this study was to detect from the literature the roles of the Government, investors, and regulators in ESG implementation in South Africa from 2002 to 2022. ESG implementation in South Africa ensures sustainable business practices are adopted by firms operating [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to detect from the literature the roles of the Government, investors, and regulators in ESG implementation in South Africa from 2002 to 2022. ESG implementation in South Africa ensures sustainable business practices are adopted by firms operating within the country. The study used a scoping review methodology, with only articles in the English language being considered. A pilot search was carried out to identify key search phrases to be included in the search strategy. A total of 208 articles were identified and only 34 articles were eligible for the study. The results show an increase in ESG implementation by institutional investors, although investor activism is still low in South Africa. The South African Government actively enacted laws and regulations that supported ESG implementation after the global financial crisis of 2007–8. However, in recent years, there has been a lack of hard laws to support the non-legislative ESG rules that dominate ESG reporting. The study shows that the South African Government should improve its ESG laws for effective ESG adoption and avoid relying on the JSE, which enforces the King Code as a mandatory listing requirement to monitor ESG implementation. Training, capacity building, and active Government participation are critical for effective ESG implementation in South Africa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Strategic Management)

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31 pages, 4809 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Entrepreneurial Female Leadership: A Business Policy Approach to B Corp Management in Latin America

by Ángel Acevedo-Duque, Rina Alvarez-Becerra, Sandra Alcina De Fortoul, Orietta Barriga-Soto, Giovanna Cúneo-Álvarez, Mirtha Mercedes Fernández-Mantilla and Carla Valdez-Alvarez

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 219; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060219 - 4 Jun 2025

This study aims to analyze how women’s empowerment in sustainable entrepreneurial leadership transforms social, environmental, and economic challenges into growth opportunities within B Corps-certified companies in Latin America. A total of 9536 companies were identified in the global B Corps registry, of which [...] Read more.

This study aims to analyze how women’s empowerment in sustainable entrepreneurial leadership transforms social, environmental, and economic challenges into growth opportunities within B Corps-certified companies in Latin America. A total of 9536 companies were identified in the global B Corps registry, of which more than 1000 belonged to the Latin America and Caribbean directory. Particular attention was given to 130 companies located in Chile, with a presence in countries such as Peru, Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Argentina. The methodology adopted a post-positivist approach with a hermeneutic analysis rooted in organizational studies, using the Straussian grounded theory method. Testimonies from 16 female entrepreneurs were explored, identified through the B Corps directory and the main social media networks of the B system in Latin America. This approach enabled a deeper understanding of the human complexity surrounding sustainability, equity, and gender equality. Findings show that female leadership promotes inclusive and strategic actions that challenge traditional structures and generate positive impacts. Five categories emerged: female entrepreneurial leadership; gender equality stakeholders; social contribution; women’s economic development; and sustainable decision-making. These converge in the central category of female empowerment in sustainable entrepreneurial leadership. In conclusion, the emerging theory expands the understanding of women-led leadership in Latin America, revealing socially responsible business models that promote sustainability, inclusion, and challenge dominant power structures in the business world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effective Leadership and Management in the Sustainable Development of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises)

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32 pages, 1800 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Framework for Tacit Knowledge Loss Mitigation in South African Public Sector Enterprises

by Malefetjane Phineas Phaladi

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060218 - 4 Jun 2025

In order to mitigate the risks of losing key personnel and their innate tacit knowledge resources, this paper explored a framework for reducing knowledge loss in South African public sector enterprises (PSEs) through the integration of knowledge management (KM) and human resource management [...] Read more.

In order to mitigate the risks of losing key personnel and their innate tacit knowledge resources, this paper explored a framework for reducing knowledge loss in South African public sector enterprises (PSEs) through the integration of knowledge management (KM) and human resource management (HRM) strategies. The study used a quantitative research design, administering survey questionnaires to 585 randomly selected employees in three South African PSEs. The survey yielded a 25% response rate and was analysed using Statistical Analysis Software, resulting in a Cronbach alpha of 0.94. The findings of the exploratory factor analysis showed that a framework for reducing knowledge loss can be developed by integrating HRM practices and focusing on seven factors: knowledge loss recognition, knowledge management practices, human resource training, organisational culture, recruitment practices, employee retention, and organisational barriers. Three important components constitute the developed framework for knowledge loss minimization. Tacit knowledge loss was recognised as a critical strategic issue based on the results of the chi-square test for independence and logistic regression. This realisation, along with control and intervention variables, created the three main components of the framework. This paper explored the Knowledge Loss Reduction framework, focusing on South African PSEs as a case, to help organisations address the complex tacit knowledge loss prevalent in public and commercial firms worldwide. It contributes to the knowledge-based view, focusing on knowledge-absorptive and -retentive capacities and praxis in knowledge (risk) management and human resource management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Talent Management Strategies for Sustainable Employee Retention)

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20 pages, 272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Collaborative Governance for Social Change and Environmental Sustainability: A Case Study of Campania Region

by Zubair Ahmad and Paolo Esposito

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060217 - 3 Jun 2025

The emphasis on collaborative governance and effective leadership to bring any social change is gaining prominence among researchers. This study investigates how leadership and collaborative governance can drive social change in waste management in Campania, using a qualitative, multi-site case study approach. Interviews [...] Read more.

The emphasis on collaborative governance and effective leadership to bring any social change is gaining prominence among researchers. This study investigates how leadership and collaborative governance can drive social change in waste management in Campania, using a qualitative, multi-site case study approach. Interviews of relevant politicians, public managers, citizens, waste management organizations and academics were conducted (2023–2024). This research uses the lens of multiple theoretical frameworks such as collaborative governance, network agency, public value framework and transformational leadership to explore different dynamics of the research such as stakeholder engagement, public value creation and leadership effectiveness in waste management. Moreover, several obstacles in the way of achieving social change in Campania concerning waste management and environmental sustainability are identified. The findings of this study added to the theoretical understanding of collaborative governance and social change through the demonstration of how transformational leadership, stakeholder participation and trust-based relationships drive good waste management while identifying structural limitations such as corruption and organized crime that hindered governance. Practically, it highlights five interconnected themes from interviews of leadership that civic leaders and managers must establish to promote positive social change: Difficulties in leadership effectiveness, civic potential unused, media mobilization, hope for a miracle and stakeholder engagement diversification. The public value framework is used to analyze the potential role of leadership in bringing change in society. The research findings are replicable and can be applied to a similar set of circumstances. This study advances existing research by addressing the gap in understanding how collaborative governance and transformational leadership can be integrated to tackle waste management and environmental sustainability challenges. The findings can be applied to other regions facing similar governance challenges, making it relevant for global sustainability efforts. Italy’s government has green-lighted projects to make these activities more visible while downplaying their negative impacts on the environment and public health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Leadership)

16 pages, 227 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Methodological Framework as a Decision-Support Tool in Addressing NFTs and Blockchain Projects in the Tourism Industry

by Raffaella Folgieri, Sergej Gričar and Tea Baldigara

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 216; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060216 - 3 Jun 2025

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are an emerging application of blockchain technology, with the potential to transform various industries, including tourism. Despite conceptual discussions that have highlighted opportunities and challenges associated with using NFTs—such as in digital souvenirs, ticketing systems, loyalty programmes, and conservation initiatives—there [...] Read more.

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are an emerging application of blockchain technology, with the potential to transform various industries, including tourism. Despite conceptual discussions that have highlighted opportunities and challenges associated with using NFTs—such as in digital souvenirs, ticketing systems, loyalty programmes, and conservation initiatives—there is a critical gap in the literature consisting of the lack of a structured methodological framework to empirically evaluate the impact of real-world NFT implementations. This study addresses this gap by proposing a conceptual model and methodological framework designed to assess NFT projects in the tourism sector. The framework integrates diverse data collection methods, advanced analytical techniques (including econometric analysis, natural language processing, and machine learning), and a technological workbench for tracking key performance indicators (KPIs). To demonstrate its applicability, the framework is applied to the Dalmatia NFT project, an exploratory application in cultural tourism. The considered example highlights the potential of NFTs to enhance tourism experiences while addressing challenges such as scalability, sustainability, and user engagement. This study concludes with insights into the framework’s practical implications for stakeholders and outlines future research directions for empirical validation. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, this study aims to provide a robust foundation for effectively integrating NFTs into the tourism industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations and Change in Service Industry Management)

23 pages, 3053 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Bibliometric Analysis of Service Quality in the Hospitality Industry (2014–2024)

by Olakunle Shakur Olawuyi and Carina Kleynhans

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060215 - 30 May 2025

Service quality is important for the survival of all businesses, including the hospitality business. Service quality can be measured by a model referred to as SERVQUAL, which comprises five parameters, namely, tangibility, reliability, assurance, empathy, and responsiveness. It is very important to examine [...] Read more.

Service quality is important for the survival of all businesses, including the hospitality business. Service quality can be measured by a model referred to as SERVQUAL, which comprises five parameters, namely, tangibility, reliability, assurance, empathy, and responsiveness. It is very important to examine publications to ascertain trends in service quality in the hospitality industry during the previous decade (2014–2024). Data were collected from the Scopus database, the article search having yielded 876 documents. The eligibility criteria were as follows: papers had to be published between 2014 and 2024, had to be written in English, and were restricted to articles, conference papers, book chapters, and review papers. The collected data were analyzed with the biblioshiny package in RStudio. The results revealed that the journal with the highest number of articles published during the period under study was Sustainability (Switzerland). Hong Kong Polytechnic was the institution with the highest number of publications vis-à-vis service quality in the hospitality industry, followed by Bina Nusantara University and Eastern Mediterranean University. It is notable that customer satisfaction featured prominently in different clusters, which emphasizes the fact that service quality is targeted at satisfying customers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Rethinking Future Studies in Tourism and Hospitality: Critical Insights and Paradigm Shifts for a New Era)

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21 pages, 1079 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Emergence of a Cooperative Amidst Economic Disruption: A Historical Narrative of Amul Coop in India

by Abhijit Ghosh and Abhirup Chakrabarti

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060214 - 30 May 2025

This study presents a process narrative of how cooperatives emerge during periods of economic disruption. Cooperative organizations are pluralistic and embedded in existing local economic contexts. Yet, the role that such organizations play can be pronounced when economic disruption occurs in the absence [...] Read more.

This study presents a process narrative of how cooperatives emerge during periods of economic disruption. Cooperative organizations are pluralistic and embedded in existing local economic contexts. Yet, the role that such organizations play can be pronounced when economic disruption occurs in the absence of well-established institutions to support cooperative ideology. This study uses the Structuration and Panarchy frameworks to examine the dynamics of Amul’s emergence, where individual producers organized against the existing structure of production in a period characterized by reorganization at the broader macro level. The study complements insights from economic and social perspectives while presenting a view of how individuals organize economically in the context of disruption. The narrative broadens the view of when collective action becomes possible and what explains sustained socio-economic value creation from such enterprises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship in the Time of Societal Disruptions)

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41 pages, 1939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic Corporate Diversity Responsibility (CDR) as a Catalyst for Sustainable Governance: Integrating Equity, Climate Resilience, and Renewable Energy in the IMSD Framework

by Benja Stig Fagerland and Lincoln Bleveans

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060213 - 29 May 2025

This paper introduces the Integrated Model for Sustainable Development (IMSD), a theory-driven governance framework that embeds Corporate Diversity Responsibility (CDR) into climate and energy policy to advance systemic equity, institutional resilience, and inclusive innovation. Grounded in Institutional Theory, the Resource-Based View (RBV), and [...] Read more.

This paper introduces the Integrated Model for Sustainable Development (IMSD), a theory-driven governance framework that embeds Corporate Diversity Responsibility (CDR) into climate and energy policy to advance systemic equity, institutional resilience, and inclusive innovation. Grounded in Institutional Theory, the Resource-Based View (RBV), and Intersectionality Theory, IMSD unifies fragmented sustainability efforts across five pillars: Climate Sustainability, Social Sustainability (CDR), Governance Integration, Collaborative Partnerships, and Implementation and Monitoring. Aligned with SDGs 7, 10, and 13, IMSD operationalizes inclusive leadership, anticipatory adaptation, and equity-centered decision-making. It addresses the compounded climate vulnerabilities faced by women and marginalized groups in the Global South, integrating insights from Indigenous resilience and intersectional adaptation strategies. Unlike conventional CSR or ESG models, IMSD institutionalizes diversity as a strategic asset and governance principle. It transforms DEIB from symbolic compliance into a catalyst for ethical leadership, legitimacy, and performance in turbulent environments. The model’s modular structure supports cross-sector scalability, making it a practical tool for organizations seeking to align ESG mandates with climate justice and inclusive innovation. Future empirical validation of the IMSD framework across diverse governance settings will further strengthen its applicability and global relevance. IMSD represents a paradigm shift in sustainability governance—bridging climate action and social equity through theory-based leadership and systemic institutional transformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gender, Race and Diversity in Organizations)

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25 pages, 1418 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Strategic Corporate Social Responsibility on Organizational Resilience—An Exploratory Case Study Based on Tesla

by Xiaoping Liu and Yishu Zhou

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060212 - 29 May 2025

In today’s complex business environments, integrating strategic corporate social responsibility (SCSR) is essential for aligning business objectives with societal interests and strengthening organizational resilience. Using Tesla as a case study, we applied stakeholder theory, grounded theory, and the Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) model to construct [...] Read more.

In today’s complex business environments, integrating strategic corporate social responsibility (SCSR) is essential for aligning business objectives with societal interests and strengthening organizational resilience. Using Tesla as a case study, we applied stakeholder theory, grounded theory, and the Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) model to construct a theoretical framework on the impact of SCSR on organizational resilience and to examine the mechanisms underpinning this process. Through the implementation of SCSR, enterprises deeply engage with primary and public stakeholders, establish resilient relationships, and enhance organizational resilience through seven dimensions: development governance, strategic management, relationship, financial, product, cultural, and social. The theoretical framework developed in this study provides a reference for subsequent research on SCSR and organizational resilience, and offers management insights for enterprises to integrate SCSR, enhance organizational resilience, and improve long-term competitiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility and Strategic Management: Integrating Ethical Practices with Sustainable Goals)

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21 pages, 438 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding the Impact of Employee Investigations on Those Who Lead Them: A Case Study from NHS Wales

by Andrew Jonathan Cooper, Doris Anita Behrens, Sophie Elizabeth Jones, Adrian Neal, Aled Jones and Walter Hyll

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060211 - 29 May 2025

In healthcare, there is growing awareness of the potential harm that disciplinary processes can have on employees, service delivery, and organizational culture. However, little attention has been given to the impact on those responsible for conducting these investigations. This study examines investigator harm [...] Read more.

In healthcare, there is growing awareness of the potential harm that disciplinary processes can have on employees, service delivery, and organizational culture. However, little attention has been given to the impact on those responsible for conducting these investigations. This study examines investigator harm through a cross-sectional survey, simultaneously collecting qualitative and quantitative data from 71 participants across 10 NHS Wales organizations. The findings indicate that investigators experience harm when conducting employee investigations. While those with more experience perceive themselves as better prepared to follow the formal steps of the disciplinary policy and process, their ability to prevent harm to themselves or others remains unchanged. Additionally, more experienced investigators are not more aware of their organization’s well-being priorities or strategies for mitigating harm. These findings highlight the need for greater support for investigators, including coaching and post-investigation debriefing. Training should raise awareness of the impact of employee investigations on all stakeholders and the importance of applying disciplinary policy and processes empathically. Finally, policies and processes should acknowledge the harm they may cause and explicitly provide strategies for harm reduction, such as treating formal investigations as a measure of ‘last resort’. Full article

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19 pages, 1334 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Situational Awareness in Leadership: Application of Methods in Business Organisations

by Virginija Ramašauskienė, Erika Župerkienė and Ligita Šimanskienė

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 210; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060210 - 29 May 2025

This study analysed the leadership approaches that determine one of the components of organisational resilience: situational awareness in business organisations. A lack of situational awareness in leadership results in poor decision making and low organisational resilience, which undermines the continuity and sustainability of [...] Read more.

This study analysed the leadership approaches that determine one of the components of organisational resilience: situational awareness in business organisations. A lack of situational awareness in leadership results in poor decision making and low organisational resilience, which undermines the continuity and sustainability of the organisation’s activities. This observation prompts the following research question: which leadership methods enhance situational awareness and how are these methods effectively applied in business organisations? This study analysed the situational awareness requirements for leadership through leadership methods. With the help of mixed methods that integrate qualitative and quantitative approaches, an empirical study was conducted in eight European countries; in total, 30 leaders of business organisations were interviewed and 3370 employee questionnaires were analysed. The analysis identified the leadership methods that enhance situational awareness; it also presented the assumptions that determine the effectiveness of these methods. The relationship between leadership methods and situational awareness was found to be mediated by the interaction of the two elements of situational awareness with twelve leadership methods. These findings provide a structured approach to explaining how leadership methods affect situational awareness, thus complementing existing theoretical frameworks and encouraging the development of new theoretical models. Full article

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41 pages, 2521 KiB

Open AccessReview

Incentives for Accrual-Based Earnings Management in Emerging Economies—A Systematic Literature Review with Bibliometric Analysis

by Lonwabo Mlawu, Frank Ranganai Matenda and Mabutho Sibanda

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 209; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060209 - 28 May 2025

In emerging economies, where the legislative and economic landscapes may significantly differ from those of advanced economies, accrual-based earnings management (AEM) is especially problematic for financial disclosure and investor trust. This paper conducts a systematic literature review and a bibliometric analysis to evaluate [...] Read more.

In emerging economies, where the legislative and economic landscapes may significantly differ from those of advanced economies, accrual-based earnings management (AEM) is especially problematic for financial disclosure and investor trust. This paper conducts a systematic literature review and a bibliometric analysis to evaluate the incentives for AEM in developing countries and to understand the evolution of the AEM domain within emerging countries. For this purpose, 312 journal articles from ResearchGate, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Google, and Scopus, covering the period from 2000 to 2024, were reviewed under various thematic areas. The findings highlighted multiple significant motivators for AEM within developing markets, encompassing financial distress, loss avoidance, profitability pressures, high leverage, weak corporate governance structures and processes, diverse ownership structures (such as concentrated ownership, family ownership, institutional ownership, government ownership, and insider ownership), market performance indicators, political ties, weak regulatory systems, as well as factors such as executive compensation, tenure, career retention, agency issues, investor expectations, audit quality, economic crises, and firm-specific characteristics like size, reputation, and age. This research contributes to existing knowledge by examining the motivations behind AEM in emerging economies, underscoring the need for tailored regulatory frameworks and strong governance structures and processes to address the unique challenges developing nations face. For regulators and policymakers, these findings emphasize the need for robust regulatory frameworks, more stringent auditing protocols, and improved corporate governance structures to discourage business executives from engaging in AEM practices. Full article

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22 pages, 535 KiB

Open AccessArticle

ESG Scores as Indicators of Green Business Strategies and Their Impact on Financial Performance in Tourism Services: Evidence from Worldwide Listed Firms

by Chrysoula Matsali, Michalis Skordoulis, Aristidis Papagrigoriou and Petros Kalantonis

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060208 - 28 May 2025

The increasing integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices into corporate strategy has raised important questions about their financial implications. This study examines the relationship between ESG performance and financial outcomes in the tourism industry, an industry that is both highly visible [...] Read more.

The increasing integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices into corporate strategy has raised important questions about their financial implications. This study examines the relationship between ESG performance and financial outcomes in the tourism industry, an industry that is both highly visible and environmentally sensitive. To achieve this, this study analyzes the impact of the three ESG dimensions on financial performance, measured by Return on Assets (ROA). Using panel data econometric techniques, this study examines a balanced panel dataset of 154 listed tourism services firms between 2017 and 2021 to assess how each ESG pillar influences profitability. ESG data were sourced from Refinitiv Eikon, a widely validated provider in ESG-financial research. The analysis employs panel data econometric techniques with firm size and leverage as control variables. Our findings indicate that the Environmental, Social, and Governance scores each have a statistically significant negative effect on ROA, while the ESG controversies score is not statistically significant. These results suggest that despite the reputational value of ESG engagement, its short-term financial impact may be limited or negative in capital-intensive service sectors, such as tourism. This study contributes to the literature by providing sector-specific, post-crisis empirical evidence and highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of ESG–financial dynamics across industries. Full article

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19 pages, 289 KiB

Open AccessArticle

CSR-Mediating CO₂ Policy Effects on Environmental Kuznets Curve in Brazil: Case Study of an Airline Company

by Juliana Lovatte, Sarah da Silva Everton, Joshua Onome Imoniana and Funmi Alakija

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 207; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060207 - 27 May 2025

This study employs a critical perspective: aiming to provide a subjective and socially constructed view on the impact of corporate governance and the corporate social responsibility (CSR) choices on the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) in terms of CO₂ emissions in Brazil. This [...] Read more.

This study employs a critical perspective: aiming to provide a subjective and socially constructed view on the impact of corporate governance and the corporate social responsibility (CSR) choices on the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) in terms of CO₂ emissions in Brazil. This research paper bridges the gap in the literature on the EKC by toeing a qualitative approach to what has been presented using quantitative methods, and offers insights on how the trends shape organisational policies. Furthermore, it enumerates the relationship between CSR, CO₂ choices, and EKC in the Brazilian aviation industry using one particular airline as a case study. It aims to provoke further conversation on decarbonisation. It seeks to show how EKC has been treated and to contextualise the impact of the airline sector’s CSR and corporate governance on EKC. A combination of a content analysis of the narratives of sustainability reports and a semi-structured interview with a sustainability expert from the aviation sector was used in data gathering, while critical discourse analysis (CDA) was employed in demonstrating the ideological and social contexts that shape organisational narratives and decisions in practices and governance structures that are driving CO₂ reduction strategies. The findings not only confirmed the crucial role that corporate governance plays in the implementation and monitoring of CSR practices within the sector but also shows the impact of integrating sustainability goals into corporate strategies. The policies nurtured by CSR are supported by the company’s ESG and Social Responsibility Committees. In the context of the case study, the corporate decision to transit to biofuels is contributing not only to the reduction in CO₂ emissions but is also seen as an economically viable strategy with public policies and regulatory frameworks. This paper further explains the impact of geopolitical factors and the need for international cooperation because the traditional U-shaped EKC is not supported in the context of the Brazilian aviation sector. Finally, this spurs the need for collaboration among various stakeholder companies, policymakers, and nations in the global context for sustainable development to have a lasting impact. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility and Corporate Governance: A Future Research Agenda)

19 pages, 495 KiB

Open AccessReview

Civic Participation in Public Sector Education: A Critical Policy Analysis of the School System in Chile

by Francisca Alvarez-Figueroa and Christopher J. Rees

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060206 - 27 May 2025

The main aim of this study is to examine how education policies in the public sector of Chile have shaped civic participation among stakeholders in the education sector. We address two complementary research questions. First, has the implementation of top-down State-level education policies [...] Read more.

The main aim of this study is to examine how education policies in the public sector of Chile have shaped civic participation among stakeholders in the education sector. We address two complementary research questions. First, has the implementation of top-down State-level education policies created practice-oriented opportunities for key stakeholders to collaborate with the distinct governing bodies operating in primary and secondary schools in Chile? Second, to what extent have top-down State-level public sector education policies in Chile affected stakeholders’ levels of influence and participation in decision-making at the local level? To address these questions, the study involves a critical policy analysis of educational policies enacted in Chile between 1990 and 2022. The findings reveal that Chile’s education policies were: (a) characterized by a neoliberal orientation to service delivery and (b) positively affected some aspects of civic participation of stakeholders in education at the local level. Notably, the majority of governing bodies that promoted policy-driven civic participation were based in fully funded public schools. This paper contributes to understanding civic participation in a deeply neoliberal context and, through critical analysis, highlights how the power and collaboration of schools’ governing bodies in Chile are limited and differentiated by the nature of their funding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Challenges in Strategy and Public Policy)

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20 pages, 696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Funding for HRM and Its Relationship with Brain Drain in Greece from 2020 to 2024

by Kyriaki Efthalitsidou, Konstantinos G. Spinthiropoulos, Nikolaos Sariannidis, Konstantinos Panytsidis, Konstantina Ragazou and George Vittas

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15060205 - 26 May 2025

This study investigates the relationship between human resource management (HRM) practices and the phenomenon of brain drain in Greece during the period 2020–2024. In the context of economic uncertainty and demographic shifts, the emigration of skilled professionals has posed serious challenges to the [...] Read more.

This study investigates the relationship between human resource management (HRM) practices and the phenomenon of brain drain in Greece during the period 2020–2024. In the context of economic uncertainty and demographic shifts, the emigration of skilled professionals has posed serious challenges to the country’s labor market and long-term development. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative data from national labor force surveys and HR statistics with qualitative insights gathered through semi-structured interviews with HR professionals and expatriates. The study applies descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including regression analysis, to examine how key HRM dimensions—such as workplace flexibility, career development, and performance-based incentives—affect employee retention. Results reveal a significant inverse relationship between HRM quality and brain drain rates, with workplace flexibility and career development emerging as critical predictors. The findings highlight the need for strategic HRM reforms tailored to the Greek context and offer evidence-based recommendations for mitigating talent outflows. This research contributes to both academic discourse and policy design by clarifying the role of HRM in supporting workforce stability in crisis-prone economies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Talent Management Strategies for Sustainable Employee Retention)

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