Uncovering the Driving Forces behind Succession Planning in Namibian Commercial Public Enterprises: A Look at Executive Leadership

Abstract

A robust succession plan for executive leadership is vital for organizational growth. This study examines challenges faced by Namibian human resource managers in maintaining effective executive leadership within Commercial Public Enterprises (CPEs). Employing a constructivist approach, it explores managers' perspectives on succession planning as a crucial tool for learning and development among Namibia's CPE managerial cadre. Using a convergent mixed-methods design, the study combines qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. Simple random sampling determines the quantitative sample, while purposive sampling selects the qualitative sample, involving 210 participants from 22 CPEs, resulting in a sample of 63 participants. Findings highlight the importance of education, mentoring, and training in shaping executive leadership succession planning in CPEs. Charismatic Chief Executive Leadership and a transactional leadership style emerge as pivotal for sustained organizational success. The study recommends strategic focus on educational programs, mentorship, and training to enhance succession planning in Namibia's CPEs, contributing to broader discussions on organizational leadership and succession planning, particularly in African nations.