Assessing the influence of professional bodies on accountability in South African state-owned enterprises

Abstract

This research investigates the role of professional bodies in enforcing accountability within South African State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). With accountability challenges prevalent in SOEs due to factors like political interference and complex governance structures, the study examines how professional bodies contribute to improving ethical conduct, governance, and public service delivery. The research adopts a qualitative methodology, involving in-depth interviews with SOE executives, to gain insights into their experiences and perceptions of professional body influence on accountability. Guided by Principal-Agent and Stewardship theories, the study explores how professional bodies instil ethical standards, offer training, and implement disciplinary frameworks that support SOE executives in maintaining high accountability standards. Findings reveal that while professional bodies play a crucial role in promoting accountability through ethical guidelines and training, external pressures and limited enforcement capacity pose significant challenges. The study concludes that enhanced collaboration between professional bodies and SOEs, alongside more context-specific accountability mechanisms, could strengthen governance and reduce corruption in the public sector. Recommendations include proactive support from professional bodies and tailored training for SOE executives. This research provides a foundation for future studies to further investigate the interplay between professional bodies and SOE accountability within different governance contexts.