Managerial effectiveness in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

"Managerial effectiveness" is a critical component of any organization, regardless of its national, cultural, ethnic or linguistic makeup (Drucker, 2001; Lund & Barker, 2007). This study explores the perceptions of "managerial effectiveness" amongst a group of Saudi and western expatriate senior managers working in Saudi Arabia. Twelve expatriate and twelve Saudi managers were interviewed and asked to define what "managerial effectiveness" means for them. The managers were also asked to describe a typical "effective" and "ineffective" manager in the context of working in Saudi Arabia. The managers were then asked to explain the factors which they perceive to influence "effectiveness" in the context of working in Saudi Arabia. This qualitative study aims to build upon the lack of information available about the concept of managerial effectiveness in Saudi Arabia. By further understanding the factors which influence managerial effectiveness, the study can be used to help Saudi and expatriate managers better understand and apply effective managerial concepts in the Saudi context. Theoretical and practical implications of the study are discussed in relation to the managerial effectiveness literature.