The role of independent and interdependent working in the TMT-BOD relationship : effectively managing environmental turbulence

Abstract

This research explores the role of attention to independent and interdependent working in the TMT and BOD relationship to effectively manage environmental turbulence. The contribution of this study was to understand how TMT-BOD work together, despite their diversity and differences to thrive during difficult times that call for contingencies. This study draws from the strategic leadership systems theory to understand the dynamics of TMT-BOD working interdependently and independently whilst maintaining productivity and performance. This study was conducted by interviewing 14 strategic leaders who hold executive and nonexecutive directorship positions in the construction and property sector that are listed in the Johannesburg stock exchange South Africa. This study found that strategic leaders worked closely together during the turbulent environment and were aware of the independency implications, however, they were also unsure about the point of compromising the independency. The diagnosing system dynamics that represents assessment of strategic leadership system was found to be an effective way for strategic leaders to manage dynamics that shift the attention to address environmental turbulence