The influence of leadership on the successful implementation of digital transformation in the Zimbabwean platinum mining industry

Abstract

Organisations are embarking on digital transformations to remain competitive and sustain themselves. Leaders need effective digital leadership to successfully lead digital transformations and transition organisations to their future states. This research seeks to understand the required leader capabilities to successfully deliver digital transformations, as well as to understand the role of leadership in successful digital transformations. This study drew upon transformational leadership theory, and the leadership skills and trait approaches to understand the leader capabilities that are required for successful digital transformation. The study adopted a qualitative exploratory research approach that drew on 16 semi-structured in-depth interviews with leaders in the Platinum Group Metals (PGM) mining industry in Zimbabwe. The outcomes of the study confirmed that successful digital transformation requires effective leadership. It is also critical for leaders to be visionary, adaptable, agile, collaborative, innovative and open minded if they are to successfully lead digital transformations. In addition, the study identified other factors that include the need for leaders to cultivate the right culture, show commitment, allocate resources, have strong people skills and acquire new skills. These leadership capabilities and factors culminated in the conception of the Digital Leadership Conceptual Framework. In addition, although somewhat inconclusive, the study does suggest the possible occurrence of a technology reverse spill over in the PGM mining industry. The study has contributed to the emergent discourse on digital leadership.