Theses and Dissertations (Business Management)

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Responsible leadership as a normative approach to stakeholder engagement
Govender, Daryl Sebastian (University of Pretoria, 2026)
Responsible leadership theory is positioned as a normative approach to leadership theory where values, scope, and goals are theoretical constructs underpinning the Normative Basis of Responsible leadership. The absence of clarity on the enactment of values, scope, and goals in stakeholder engagement raised the question of the practicability of the Normative Basis of Responsible leadership. This study explores the extent to which the Normative Basis of Responsible leadership theory is practicable. This was done by analysing stakeholder engagement in a large and complex organisation in which the values-based engagement of stakeholders is an explicit organisational goal. By studying values-based engagements, the scope of engagements and mutual goals in a practical stakeholder engagement setting, this research has found that the Normative Basis of Responsible leadership is partly practicable. A normative theory is understood in this research to focus on inputs like leaders’ normative actions and differ from an instrumental theory that focuses on outputs like profit using stakeholders for a competitive advantage. The findings support the need for leaders to act normatively but highlight that there are business objectives in an organisation that leaders must address alongside the resolution of stakeholder needs. These business objectives require leaders to think about their actions and the outcomes of their actions. This process is characteristically instrumental. This can, however, be done without detracting from the values basis of responsible leadership because values affect behaviour; thus, values are important even in the instrumental sense. Actions, normative or instrumental, ultimately depend on leaders and their values. Understanding that the normative basis alone is insufficient as a basis for responsible leadership theory, this study has found that responsible leadership theory should be simultaneously normative and instrumental.
Social media management by higher education institutions in Africa
Tlale, Sithembinkosi (University of Pretoria, 2026-02-23)
In an era shaped by digital transformation and globalisation, African higher education institutions (HEIs) are navigating increasing competition and growth both locally and internationally. This evolving landscape calls for a reimagining of communication approaches that align with the unique socio-economic and cultural realities of the continent and HEIs, whether public or private. Recent shifts in the global higher education sector highlight the pivotal role of social media in stakeholder engagement, brand visibility, and reputation management. While notable strides have been made in enhancing institutional competitiveness and recognising the value of communication and marketing, disparities between the Global North and Global South persist. Limited access to digital infrastructure, challenges with internet connectivity, and financial constraints continue to be challenges that many African HEIs and their stakeholders have to navigate. Despite growing global interest in social media's role in higher education, there is a notable lack of context-specific management frameworks for African HEIs, based on a continental perspective. To address this conceptual gap, this study employed a qualitative approach, drawing insights from the most senior social media, communication, and marketing managers at leading HEIs in Africa. The sample included 17 institutions from 11 African countries, selected based on their places in the 2022 and 2023 QS and Times Higher Education Rankings. Semi-structured interviews were used to investigate the primary and six secondary research questions. The latter focused on the composition of social media teams, their role in strategic communication and marketing, resource allocation for social media, the skill set of social media specialists, the monitoring and measurement of social media, as well as practitioners’ perspectives on an ideal management framework for the HEI context. The key contribution of this thesis is a conceptual framework for managing social media by HEIs in Africa. This framework is rooted in symbolic interactionism as the grand theory. It further draws on principles of strategic integrated communication. The social media strategist is positioned as both a digital communication leader and educator, requiring strategic vision, advanced competencies, and a deep institutional knowledge. Operating within an institutional advancement division, this role is essential in navigating the complexities of Industry 5.0 and ensuring social media initiatives are agile, forward-looking, and aligned with institutional priorities. In addition, the framework emphasises the need for strategically integrated content to achieve competitive positioning, based on ethical and legally compliant stakeholder engagement. Flexibility in strategy implementation is critical to accommodate centralised and decentralised structures, depending on the needs of different HEIs.
Exploring the impact of entrepreneurship training in creating successful start-up enterprises in Limpopo Province, South Africa
Mpe, Ramatsobane Innocent (University of Pretoria, 2025-12)
The study underscores the critical role of entrepreneurship in economic development, especially in developing economies facing poverty, inequality, and unemployment. It highlights the strategic importance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa’s economy, noting their contribution to GDP and employment. The study stresses that entrepreneurship training is not merely a cost but a valuable investment that enhances start-up survival and growth, particularly amid global economic challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic. The study reviews multiple theories underpinning entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship education, categorising them into classical, behavioural, sociological, and modern theories. It discusses foundational theories such as Cantillon’s theory, Marshall’s approach, endogenous growth theory, knowledge-based theory, and transformative learning theory. These theories collectively emphasise the importance of innovation, motivation, risk-taking, and knowledge acquisition in entrepreneurial success. The study further elaborates on the transformative learning theory (TLT), entrepreneurial self-efficacy theory (ESE), self-determination theory (SDT), and constructivist learning theory (CLT), explaining how these frameworks support the development of entrepreneurial skills and mindset through targeted training interventions. It highlights the role of a facilitator in motivating participants and ensuring educational programs foster behavioural change essential for venture creation and growth. The study employs a quantitative research design based on the positivist paradigm, utilising structured questionnaires administered at three intervals: pre-test, post-test, and post-post-test. A sample of 294 start-up owner/managers, including individuals engaged in hybrid entrepreneurship and those operating unregistered businesses, was selected from various districts within Limpopo Province through purposive random sampling, with assistance from the Limpopo United Business Forum (LUBF). The methodology includes factor analysis (validity), reliability testing (Cronbach’s alpha), and statistical hypothesis testing, such as the Kruskal-Wallis test and ANOVA, to assess the impact of entrepreneurship training (E/T) on entrepreneurial skills and business performance indicators. The sample size was comprehensive, covering the entire target population of 294 start-ups. Data collection employed consistent measurement tools and adhered to ethical guidelines, including anonymisation to reduce bias. The study ensured validity and reliability through standardised instruments that measured entrepreneurial performance, motivation, entrepreneurial skills, business skills, and technical skills. The training significantly improved participants’ skills across eight key entrepreneurial domains: creativity and innovation, networking, competitiveness, need for achievement, business start-up, business planning, marketing, and financial management. Statistical tests rejected the null hypotheses for all skills, indicating meaningful improvements over time. Positive correlations among these skills suggest that enhancing one skill is associated with improvements in others. The study assessed the impact of E/T on four business performance proxies: monthly sales, asset value, number of workers, and profitability. Findings include that the number of workers increased significantly from an average of 2 to 6, indicating business expansion and job creation. Profitability improved significantly post-training. Monthly sales and asset value increased, though not always statistically significant, suggesting gradual growth. Effect sizes calculated for these variables indicate practical significance, reinforcing the value of E/T in fostering start-up growth. The research tested multiple hypotheses regarding the relationships among E/T, entrepreneurial skills, and business outcomes. All hypotheses related to skill improvements and business performance showed statistically significant positive relationships, leading to the rejection of null hypotheses and affirming the beneficial impact of E/T. The study proposes several evidence-based strategies to enhance the effectiveness of entrepreneurship training. The research concludes that entrepreneurship training has a transformative and catalytic effect on start-up enterprises in Limpopo Province. It significantly enhances key entrepreneurial skills, fosters business growth, and contributes to job creation and profitability. The findings emphasise the need for sustained investment in E/T and for integrated strategies involving education institutions, government, and private-sector stakeholders to support start-up success and economic development.
A study of differences between entrepreneurial competency levels and business performance of established entrepreneurs small and medium enterprise
Ramogale , Annah Maleepile (University of Pretoria, 2025-07-30)
Entrepreneurial competencies are largely recognised as the critical factors contributing to business performance. In turn, increased business performance is a positive indicator of a thriving SME sector. It is reported that the success, performance, survival, and growth of SMEs are strongly influenced by the entrepreneur’s competencies. Therefore, the instrumentality of entrepreneurial competencies has remained an important topic to economic development. Previous studies show that entrepreneurial competencies can be influenced by certain variables and vary between these variables, for example age, education level, region, and industry. The aim of this study is to prove there are statistically significant differences in entrepreneurial competency levels and business performance between the different age groups, qualification levels, and industry sector, and per region of existing SMEs in Gauteng, South Africa. This study followed a quantitative method, in which a perception questionnaire and related scales were administered to 520 established entrepreneurs in five regions of the Gauteng Province, South Africa, who are between the ages of 18 and 65, have been operating for over a year in various industries, are in possession of an educational qualification, and are currently undergoing entrepreneurial training. For the purposes of this study, businesses operating for over one year or more are considered as established. Statistical analysis techniques that were used in this study included descriptive and inferential statistics. This study will assist entrepreneurs, policymakers, trainees, and trainers. It will assist entrepreneurs in identifying their own entrepreneurial strengths and diagnostic ability in discerning innate obstacles that might hinder their disposition to thrive. Policymakers and trainers will be able to use the data in considering when formulating and delivering training content, the intricate, complex but factual differences in their audience and careful attention whether training objectives are met based on these differences.
Investigating entrepreneurial willingness and motivation of rural residents to become agricultural entrepreneurs on land expropriated without compensation
Ngcongo, Nokulunga Pinky (University of Pretoria, 2025-08-30)
The land expropriation without compensation policy debate in South Africa has intensified land tenure uncertainty, with important implications for rural entrepreneurship. In contexts where land rights are perceived as insecure, rural residents may be reluctant to commit resources, increasing the risk of instability and land underutilisation. This study investigated the influence of human capital, social capital, entrepreneurial attitudes, background variables, and entrepreneurial personality traits on the entrepreneurial willingness of rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal to engage in agricultural entrepreneurship on expropriated land. The original doctoral contribution of this study lies in the empirical integration of the resource-based view, social-cognitive theory, and entrepreneurial personality traits within the South African policy context of land tenure uncertainty. A cross-sectional quantitative design was employed, with data collected from 620 respondents using a structured questionnaire and non-probability quota sampling. Data were analysed using factor analysis and structural equation modelling. The structural model results indicate that entrepreneurial attitudes associated with planned behaviour exert a strong and statistically significant positive effect on entrepreneurial willingness, while social collaboration demonstrates a statistically significant negative relationship. In contrast, entrepreneurial personality traits and technical competency do not show statistically significant effects on entrepreneurial willingness. These findings suggest that behavioural orientations and contextual dynamics play a more decisive role than individual skills or personality traits in land-insecure environments. The study recommends targeted human capital interventions, the strengthening of productive social networks, the inclusion of traditional authorities, and enhanced policy clarity on land tenure to support sustainable rural agricultural entrepreneurship.
Exploring middle managers’ sensemaking practices for embedding corporate sustainability : the case of a sub-Saharan MNE
Monkge, Tshegofatso Alice (University of Pretoria, 2025-11-11)
While often overlooked, middle managers are crucial practitioners who act as the conduits of sustainability action in organisations. Their meaning making, narratives, and interpretation have a significant bearing on the construction of a shared Corporate Sustainability (CS) commitment and embeddedness. The purpose of the study is to provide a better understanding of middle managers’ sensemaking practices for embedding CS. The study was guided by the overarching research question: “How do middle managers make sense of and embed CS into strategising?” A two-phase, rigorous data gathering approach was then followed. In Phase 1, an extensive literature review and scoping review were performed to establish the theoretical grounding and gaps. In Phase 2, a qualitative social constructivist exploration was conducted using a single-case design of a leading sub-Saharan MNE in the funeral services industry. Through a strategy as practice lens, the sensemaking practices of 18 middle managers were explored and captured in individual in-depth interviews. Their narratives were audio-recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis. The emerging insights were corroborated and triangulated against additional data sources: official observations of key strategic events, organisational documents, and interviews with executive management at the case company. An iterative and cyclical analysis approach was adopted, which not only enabled continuous engagement with both data and theory during interpretation, but also contributed to the study’s trustworthiness and rigour. The findings reveal seven main themes, which were metaphorically expressed to represent patterns and meanings that link the data to the research questions. These themes (Who am I?; The compass; The wildcard; The Swiss pocketknife; The jigsaw builder; Catalysts and impeders; and One seed at a time), together, reveal the middle managers’ sensemaking practices as well as the multifunctional micro-foundational tools they draw upon to enact their roles in CS. The study identified several sensegiving pathways through which middle managers make sense of and negotiate the meaning of CS. Moreover, their sensemaking was uniquely underpinned and triggered by an intricate web of individual, organisational, and environmental circumstances. These findings foreground the pivotal role of middle managers as receivers and transformers of organisational objectives in CS transitions. This study contributes to the much-needed empirical literature from understudied geographical and industry contexts, offering insight from the funeral services industry in sub-Saharan Africa. It provides a novel understanding by extending sensemaking theory to the exploration of middle managers’ practices for embedding CS. It contributes to the practice-inspired literature from the middle managers’ perspective and offers practical insight for practitioners to overcome sustainability embeddedness challenges.
The relationship between employee engagement and corporate entrepreneurship intensity in different industries
Makokoe, Kgothatso (University of Pretoria, 2025-08-30)
While most studies focus on employee engagement exclusively or with some of the dimensions of corporate entrepreneurship intensity, this study sought to create and evaluate a regression model that will predict growth in performance as a result of the correlation between employee engagement and all five dimensions of corporate entrepreneurship intensity (proactiveness, innovativeness, risk-taking, self-renewal/strategic-renewal and business venturing) in different South African corporations. The research was carried out in two phases that included the review of literature and an empirical investigation. The data was collected from 459 junior, middle and senior managers of different South African industries through self-administered questionnaires for the empirical phase of the study. The descriptive statistics of the study indicate that a larger number of the participants (37.47%, n = 172) hold honours degrees, 28.998% (n = 133) have completed a bachelor’s degree and 0.65% (n =3) completed their Grade 12. In addition, the study indicates that a larger number of the participants occupy senior positions (55.99%, n = 257), while 26.36% (n = 121) occupy junior positions and 17.43% (n = 80) occupy executive positions. The Individual Entrepreneurial Orientation theoretical framework was introduced as the foundation through which corporate entrepreneurship intensity can be connected to an individual’s ability to be entrepreneurial. Similarly, the Theory of Social Exchange was introduced as the foundation through which employee engagement can be connected to an individual’s ability to be engaged. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis identified constructs, such as vision and purpose, new business venturing, development, innovation, strategic agility, and proactiveness in measuring corporate entrepreneurship. Hypothesis testing revealed that growth in turnover, growth in employee numbers, growth in profit, growth on return on equity and employee engagement were not entrepreneurially aligned with the new business venturing inclination. At the same time, the results indicated that strategic agility/clarity had a significant impact on growth in employee numbers, growth on return on equity and employee engagement. The associations highlighted the intersection between financial health, organisational scale, and internal engagement in shaping strategy.
Analysing the entrepreneurial orientation levels of South African universities
Ndamase, Bongani (University of Pretoria, 2021-09)
‘Universities create the future.’ – Alfred North Whitehead South Africa is an upper middle-income country that aspires to become an advanced economy by 2030. The National Development Plan envisions South Africa as a knowledge-based economy by 2030. A knowledge-based economy predominantly relies on knowledge as a factor of production as opposed to a resource-based economy that relies on capital, labour and land as factors of production. It is accepted in the literature that universities are the institutions that create economically valuable knowledge that helps a resource-based economy transition to a knowledge-based economy. The literature reveals that universities have evolved over five phases from traditional to entrepreneurial universities that drive socio economic development in society. This transformation has seen universities incorporate the third mission of entrepreneurialism into their traditional missions of teaching and learning and research. Despite this knowledge, the South African government has not orchestrated requisite resources to ensure that universities fulfil this significant role in economic transformation. Secondly, entrepreneurship scholars seem to have paid less attention to this theme as well. Thirdly, civil society, students and other stakeholders have also not prioritised this theme. It is against this backdrop that this study was executed. Universities are regarded as engines of economic growth and development in society because they fulfil three major societal responsibilities. Firstly, they produce (or ought to) produce competent human capital for the economy. Economic developments mean that the market requires people with high levels of knowledge and competence acquired mainly from universities. Secondlee, universities are expected to conduct research that produces knowledge for society and other stakeholders. Thirdly, universities are required to generate economically valuable knowledge that can be commercialised to generate revenues for universities and other participants. Through this third stream of entrepreneurial activities, universities can contribute to job creation, poverty eradication and reduction of inequalities in their localities, regions and countries. This stream may also enable South African universities to reduce the high levels of unemployment amongst their graduates. According to a South African Cabinet report, South Africa has approximately 1.5 million unemployed graduates. This is an opportunity for South African universities to implement the entrepreneurial dimension of their mandate. This is also an opportunity to realise the supposition of the recession-push hypothesis that postulates that economic downturns provide the economy with readily available skilled labour. It is accepted that university leaders at different levels should embrace the notion of an entrepreneurial university to help their institutions transform into entrepreneurial universities. This study measured the perceptions of South African university managers regarding the entrepreneurial orientation of South African universities. South Africa has 26 public universities that are accredited to award various academic and professional qualifications. Universities are, therefore, invaluable public policy instruments that can contribute to the realisation of the country’s development aspirations. However, universities should also embark on their own corporate entrepreneurship initiatives that renew and align their strategies with new socio-economic imperatives. This means that universities should transform themselves before they attempt to transform society. This study is analytical in nature and used the modified and adapted ENTRE-U scale. This is the most comprehensive measurement instrument developed to date to evaluate the entrepreneurial orientation of universities. Assessment tools such as the HEInnovate tool developed by the European Union and the Organisation for Economic Co operation and Development and the Accreditation Council for Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities Toolkit developed by the University Industry Innovation Network have been reviewed as points of theoretical reference. They, however, lack the intellectual rigour of the ENTRE-U scale. This study consisted of a cross-sectional survey that electronically distributed a self administered questionnaire with 30 response items. Finally, this study significantly contributes to knowledge in the realms of corporate entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial universities. It contributes to the enrichment of the ENTRE-U scale. The study contributes to a better understanding of the factors that constitute entrepreneurial universities. The five factors generated through the factor analysis are a significant contribution to the entrepreneurial orientation of universities scholarship. The study also contributes to the theoretical understanding of entrepreneurial universities as catalytic institutions for economic development in society. This should empower South African public policymakers to align resource allocation towards universities or the development of the knowledge/quaternary sector of the economy in the journey towards 2030. The study supplies tertiary students and graduates with appropriate tools to engage university leaders on the normative roles they ought to play. Different university leaders are empowered to fulfil their roles in the journey to become entrepreneurial. However, executives shoulder more responsibility, as they ought to direct resources and drive strategic renewal programmes towards the realisation of an entrepreneurial university. This study, therefore, practically empowers societal stakeholders to engage universities on how they propose to institutionalise entrepreneurialism as a university-wide strategic phenomenon. The study can also be generalised to other settings, such as technical and vocational education and training colleges, and other countries, such as the Southern African Development Community and the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa block. It can serve as a strategic geo-economic instrument in the African Union and the United Nations.
Collective leadership practices in plural organisations : an autoethnographic social constructionist investigation of South African state-owned entities
Ramukumba, Khathutshelo Mike (University of Pretoria, 2025-07)
Literature has revealed that little is known regarding the social dynamics, communication patterns, and power structures in plural organizations because current leadership research often concentrates on singular social entities. This necessitates studies that explore how multiple intersecting social entities influence and shape the social construction of collective leadership in plural organizations. This study explored and described the social construction of collective leadership in plural organizations with South African SOEs as its setting. The study adopted an analytical autoethnography approach using both convenience and purposive sampling techniques. The primary data sources were reflexive journals, self-interviews and media reports. Secondary data was obtained from interviews with individuals who have also served in leadership roles in SA SOEs. Data analysis was conducted using Atlas.ti software, employing thematic analysis.The results showed that meticulous appointment processes are vital for building trust and legitimacy. There is a need for effective conflict resolution, consensus-building, transparent meeting protocols and information flow. They are crucial for organizational alignment and impact the external political dynamics of leadership. An outcome of the study was the development of frameworks for continuous improvement through thorough assessment, stakeholder engagement, detailed planning, training, ongoing evaluation, and the assurance of adaptable and practical leadership structures. Several factors, such as the appointment processes, leadership interactions, meetings and information flow, team formation, and the meaning of collective leadership, appear to influence the social construction of collective leadership in plural organizations. It was recommended that structured frameworks on the biographical aspects of collective leadership be adopted to improve the quality and effectiveness of collective leadership in plural organizations.
The integration of Ubuntu into leadership practices of leaders in multinational companies : a South African perspective
Theledi, Ofentse (University of Pretoria, 2025-03)
In this thesis, The integration of Ubuntu into leadership practices of leaders in multinational companies: A South African perspective, the candidate explored the intersection of culture and leadership, specifically focusing on how business leaders can integrate Ubuntu into their leadership approach. The findings indicated that Ubuntu is viewed as an African expression of humanness and is acknowledged for its universal relevance. The integration of Ubuntu extends beyond individual leadership methods and is also reflected within organisational practices. Ubuntu’s integration can occur through strategic alignment with Ubuntu values, establishing organisational values that resonate with Ubuntu, performance management systems that complement Ubuntu, and a commitment to sustainability and related initiatives. Despite the leaders’ efforts to incorporate Ubuntu into their leadership styles and organisational practices, leaders faced various challenges that required navigation. This research enriches the understanding of the relationship between culture, specifically Ubuntu, and effective leadership.
Exploring a capital structure decision-making framework for financially distressed companies
Van Beek, Coenraad J.S. (University of Pretoria, 2022-08-10)
Depending on the stage of its life cycle, a company will require a different composition of its capital structure. The life cycle stage does not automatically determine the probability of financial distress for a company. However, the inverse is true; financial distress can determine the life cycle phase of a company. The question that academics and practitioners continue to grapple with is, what should the financially distressed company’s capital structure consist of to maximise its chances of success? This study explores severity of distress, reasonable prospect to rescue a financially distressed company, various capital structure theories, and the determinants of capital structures to investigate what may inform capital structure decision-making for distressed companies. The aim of this study is to explore a capital structure decision-making framework for financially distressed companies. This is achieved by investigating the following research questions: 1. How does severity of distress impact the capital structure decision of financially distressed companies? 2. How does the reasonable prospect of rescuing a company affect the capital structure decisions of financially distressed companies? 3. What are the determinants of the capital structure of financially distressed companies? 4. What decision-making framework should funders and practitioners use when considering the capital structure decisions of financially distressed companies? The main contributions of this study were to expand on the existing frameworks to evaluate severity of distress on a framework that is more aligned to capital structure decision-making. Furthermore, it was also to further investigate the boundaries of the zone of insolvency and its consequences for capital structure decision-making. However, the study explored how severity of distress and the zone of insolvency impact the reasonable prospect of rescuing a company. This study then aims to contribute further to the limited academic literature that is available on the concept of reasonable prospect and explores how existing reasonable prospect calculations can be adapted to make them less subjective and align them to make sense of the capital structure that financially distressed companies require. The unique circumstances that a company in financial distress finds itself in result in determinants affecting its capital structure that is different from the norm. This study explored possible determinants that have a practical implication as well for companies in financial distress. The study then aims to propose a capital structure decision-making framework that can be used for future research and by practitioners to hopefully move the capital structure debate and practical value thereof forward for practitioners. Literature review The literature review explored the literature on severity of financial distress, the zone of insolvency, and the reasonable prospect of rescuing a company. Furthermore, the study reviewed the three main capital structure theories, namely, the irrelevance capital structure theory, the trade-off theory, and lastly, the pecking order theory and considered the impact of financial distress. The study also focuses on the shutdown rule and key case law to assist in the exploration of determinants of capital structure when a company is financially distressed. Theoretical framework To address this gap in theory, the researcher explores what may inform capital structure decision-making for distressed companies from an ontologically subjective constructivist-interpretive paradigm, believing that knowledge comes from facts associated with real-life cases and their context. The reality for a financially distressed company is not the norms that govern the company as a going concern in finance, accounting, investment, and economic disciplines. The researcher’s epistemological position acknowledges that as a constructive interpretivist, the researcher is inclined to a more qualitative research methodology to explore and understand the phenomenon of financially distressed companies’ capital structure. Methodology A mixed-method approach was used to first explore the constructs and themes around severity of distress, zone of insolvency, reasonable prospect to rescue a company, and capital structure of companies in financial distress through a review of relevant literature. This was followed by pilot qualitative semi-structured open-ended interviews with various industry experts that span management, practitioners, and funders. As a practitioner in the field, the researcher’s own observations were also used for further triangulation. The themes and constructs established were then further explored through a Qualtrics questionnaire extracted from the initial concourse statements. The final Q-set of 66 statements was then sorted by expert industry participants and analysed using the PQMethod software for quantitative correlation and factor extraction. Finally, a holistic interpretation of all statements to explore the phenomenon was made to find synergies between the data and the theories explored. Interpretation The interpretation revealed a surprisingly high correlation between the three-factor arrays (viewpoints) identified through the Q method process and the three main capital structure theories, namely, pecking order theory, trade-off theory, and irrelevance theory, that were selected as the focus during the literature review. Another surprising outcome was the realisation after exploration of a holistic range of statements that the factor arrays did not favour a particular capital structure theory but rather differentiated the use of a capital structure theory based on severity of distress and the reasonable prospect of rescuing the company. The determinants that have an impact on the determination of severity of financial distress and the calculation of the reasonable prospect were also explored. This study proposes a less subjective framework that can practically be aligned to the distressed company capital structure. Discussion This study concluded by making observations on the propositions made from the original literature review. Furthermore, a capital structure decision-making framework for financially distressed companies is proposed that will hopefully evoke further academic debate and be useful for practitioners. Conclusion This study explored literature relevant to the phenomenon of capital structure decision-making for financially distressed companies. Furthermore, the gaps identified in the literature and lacking in practice were addressed with the mixed-method exploratory research using the Q methodology for the first time in this context. The results were surprising findings linking severity of distress, reasonable prospect, the determinants of capital structure for financially distressed companies, and the capital structure theories in a new way. This allowed for the proposal of a capital structure decision-making framework for financially distressed companies that will hopefully evoke further academic research and practical application.
Predicting social grant recipients' entrepreneurial willingness to be self-employed
Masilela, Boitumelo (University of Pretoria, 2025-01)
Social grants in South Africa were introduced to reform a previously biased social welfare system that excluded non-white citizens. With approximately 29 million grant beneficiaries and an unemployment rate of 32.9%, the sustainability of social assistance is under scrutiny, especially given South Africa’s low entrepreneurial growth rate compared to other African countries. Studies show that unemployed or low-income individuals often supplement their livelihoods with income from social grants. This study sought to create and evaluate a predictive model using structural equation modelling (SEM) to understand the factors influencing social grant recipients' willingness to be self-employed, focusing on their need for achievement, planned behaviour and their individual entrepreneurial orientation. The research was carried out in two phases - a review of literature and an empirical investigation, with data collected from 725 social grant recipients in Johannesburg, Tshwane and rural Limpopo Province through self-administered questionnaires for the empirical phase of the study. Descriptive statistics revealed a sample made up predominantly of female recipients aged from 18 to 40, with 36% having completed matric. Major challenges identified in starting a business included access to finance, business training and marketing strategies. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses identified constructs such as "achievement motivation" and "apathy" as significant in measuring entrepreneurial orientation. The Theory of Planned Behaviour was validated, showing that attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control predict entrepreneurial intentions. Hypothesis testing indicated that perceived obstacles significantly influence achievement motivation, apathy and behavioural intentions. Despite government support programmes, access to finance remains a major hurdle. The findings highlight the need for tailored financial products, comprehensive business training and improved policy implementation to support social grant recipients in overcoming barriers to entrepreneurship. Enhancing an entrepreneurial willingness and mindset is crucial for motivating social grant recipients towards self-employment, and in this way contributing to economic development and poverty alleviation in South Africa.
Willingness of entrepreneurs to use Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment to build cross-race business alliances
Botha, Dean Justin (University of Pretoria, 2024-09)
Background: Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment is based on predetermined outcomes which are not just determined in legislation, but the Codes of Good Practice as enacted by the BBBEE Commission. This research focuses on the evolutionary approach of Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment within the cross-race (‘black’ and white) economic cooperation and business alliance within the South African SMME ecosystem; within the legislated rationality of the socio-economic system which is the South African economy. Aim: Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment is based upon demographics: race, gender and age. The research sample which consists of 347 respondents is used to consider the impact of BBBEE on the entrepreneurial spirit and economic participation: contributing to cooperation within the SMME ecosystem in South Africa. The aim is to understand what drives cross-race business alliances through BBBEE. Setting: This research focuses on the evolutionary approach of Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment within the cross-race (‘black’ and white) economic cooperation and business alliance within the South African SMME ecosystem; within the legislated rationality of the socio-economic system which is the South African economy. Methods: One of the central themes, concept and construct of this research is race; conventional academia and theories exclude race, age, and gender. This study makes use of demographic, univariate and multivariate statistical analysis to prove the different stated hypotheses. Results: Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment is known across races, genders and age. Willingness, economic prosperity and benefits are driven by compliance with legislation. The said compliance is not driven by voluntary participation, which is a conundrum to be overcome by both legislators and entrepreneurs within the SMME ecosystem within South Africa. Conclusion: The logical process for entrepreneurship and further developed is a process rooted within capitalistic norms (Capitalism), whereas BBBEE is contradictory to these norms.
Business networks, entrepreneurial branding and innovation : strategies for promoting start-up success in Botswana and South Africa
Moagi, Tebogo Mokwene (University of Pretoria, 2024-08)
Start-ups have made a significant contribution to global economic growth. Research has revealed, however, that start-ups continue to fail during their early years of operation. Earlier research on start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has focused on failures rather than successes. Furthermore, there has been little research done in South Africa and Botswana on how start-ups use business networks, entrepreneurial branding and innovation to achieve success. Botswana and South Africa differ drastically in terms of size of population and GDP, however, they have some aspects in common such as trade relationships and regional integration. Both are members of Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and Southern African Development Community (SADC). Amidst the increasing levels of poverty, unemployment and inequality, South Africa looks to start-ups to create more jobs and contribute towards poverty alleviation. Similarly, Botswana is also faced with the problem of unemployment, particularly among the women and youth. Start-ups in the two countries are considered vital in creating employment and improving the livelihood of people. The aim of this concurrent mixed method study was to investigate business networks, entrepreneurial branding and innovation as strategies for start-up success. The researcher therefore does not intent to make a comparison between the two countries but instead find out if start-ups in Botswana have the same experiences as their South African counterparts. The study drew theories from the literature on business networks, innovation and entrepreneurial branding. A historical background for the three strategies was also presented to understand how they have evolved over time. To develop a theory based on qualitative data analysis, a strategic theoretical conceptual framework was proposed. The study concentrated on start-up owners and managers who were actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the business. A survey was conducted with 212 Botswana start-ups and case studies were conducted using online and face-to-face structured interviews with eight South African start-ups as part of a mixed methods research approach. The quantitative data were analysed with SPSS. A structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the hypotheses. The following findings were revealed: The impact of business networks on start-ups' success was negative and insignificant, supporting Ho1. The impact of innovation on start-ups' success was positive and significant, rejecting Ho 2. The impact of entrepreneurial branding on start-ups' success was positive and insignificant, supporting Ho 3. Therefore, the proposed innovative branded networks contribute to the success of start-ups. In addition, qualitative data were analysed thematically using the grounded theory approach. The findings revealed that the three strategies contributed positively to the success of start-ups in Botswana and South Africa. According to the qualitative analysis, innovation is at the heart of business networks and entrepreneurial branding, and it motivates the development, enhancement and growth of the other two strategies. However, to compete in the market, participants used the three strategies as marketing tools.
Economic implications of tourism disruption : a post-COVID-19 perspective for an emerging economy
Ilo, Sylvester Okechukwu (University of Pretoria, 2024-06)
The disruption of the tourism industry by the COVID-19 pandemic had significant economic implications for the global tourism industry. For a tourism-sensitive economy such as South African’s, the pandemic negatively affected both the demand and supply sides of the business ecosystem of the tourism sector, thereby necessitating strategic and policy responses to rebuild and reposition the sector for post-pandemic attractiveness and competitiveness. It is on this thrust that this study examined the economic implications of COVID-19 disruptions in the tourism industry and devised a framework for post-pandemic growth and competitiveness of the industry. With the two broad divides of predictors of tourism business performance, the study investigated the moderating effects of perceived risks and adoption of technology on tourists’ behavioural intentions. Data were collected through a survey by adopting a multi-stage sampling method and were subjected to both reliability and validity tests using confirmatory factor analysis. The Structural Equation Modelling statistical method was used to conduct the moderation analysis. Results showed a significant decline in tourism contributions to the South African economy, four out of six COVID-19-induced dimensions of perceived risks having a negative moderating influence on tourists’ behavioural intentions towards South Africa, while technology adoption in the tourism space positively moderated tourists’ intentions to visit South Africa. The study concluded that technological adoption in the tourism industry has the potential of reversing the negative influence of COVID-19-induced risks and, therefore, improve South Africa’s destination attractiveness and competitiveness. It recommends, among others, that tourism destination managers and policymakers put policies in place to improve the adoption of innovative technologies across South Africa’s tourism value chain.
Exploring the relationship between strategy consultants and strategy tools using grounded theory : a strategy as practice perspective
McLachlan, Philip P. (University of Pretoria, 2019)
Strategy consultants act as catalysts of contemporary social change. They shape the global economy through strategies of some of the world’s largest organisations, yet little is known about their strategising practices, particularly in employing strategy tools. The purpose of this study was to generate theory that will contribute to understanding the interplay between strategy consultants and their use of strategy tools in everyday strategising. In line with a broader practice turn in social sciences, the study adopts the strategy as practice perspective and conceptualises strategy as something an organisation does, therefore focusing on activities and practices of the strategist that constitute strategising. Grounded theory is employed as qualitative methodology, complemented by in depth interviews with eleven strategy consultants. Five conceptual categories were deduced that aid in exploring the interplay between strategy consultants and their use of strategy tools. Drawing upon several practice and practice-based theories, the study enhances understanding of the professional identity of the strategy consultant in practice and explores the interplay the strategy consultant has with strategy tools. The study presents novel insight into strategy tool selection strategies, the dimensions of boundary spanning activities in using strategy tools as boundary objects, the nature of strategic information finding activities in pursuit of strategic outcomes, and the mediating role of knowledge, language and structures. The findings and theoretical integration of the grounded categories into existing strategy as practice literature contributes to our understanding of the strategy consultant as strategist and the relationship with strategy tools as material artefacts in strategising.
Strategic issues in purchasing management for manufacturing enterprises
Palliam, Ralph (University of Pretoria, 1997)
English: The study "Strategic issues in purchasing management for manufacturing enterprise" considers the premise that manufacturing enterprises are facing increased competition and are operating in a dynamic environment. A detailed literature survey was undertaken and an empirical study of a sample of one hundred and fifty industrial enterprises was conducted. The findings of the study indicate that enterprises are constantly adapting to changes in the marketplace. The changes include regulations, deregulations, globalization, advancing customer focused technology and services, growing quality requirements and constant cost improvement pressures. Strategically managing purchased goods and services positions manufacturing enterprises to turn these changes into a competitive advantage by leveraging the company's purchasing power and maximizing the contribution of the supply base through mutually aligned interests. The study presents an opportunity for the purchasing department to stand out as a strategic leader. The study offers specific plans on how strategic management of purchased goods and services can contribute to the enterprise's objectives. In order to achieve the overall objectives of the enterprise, the purchasing department must clearly understand what are the strategic issues in purchasing management and must define its role in the change effort. In addition it must plan for implementation of the change throughout the enterprise. Within this context purchasing is identified as a constantly evolving function in its role as a marketer to the internal customers within the manufacturing enterprise, marketer to the external suppliers and a participant in the corporate management process. This study examines the evolution of purchasing and projects trends which are concomitant with strategic purchasing. "Strategic issues in purchasing management for manufacturing enterprise" notes that the management of sources of materials and services is of vital importance especially for manufacturing enterprises. In addition the study recognises changes in customer demands and competitive offerings and noted the gaps between early strategic involvement of purchasing and product innovation management. The new product development process requires purchasing' s input in view of the fact that outside suppliers will provide materials that constitute a majority of the cost of a new product. In addition, suppliers may provide new product and process technologies that are critical to the development effort. Purchasing is ideally located to manage this interaction. Considering the rapid evolution of the purchasing function, "Strategic issues in purchasing management for manufacturing enterprise" recommends that enterprises move away from the functional and transactional focused purchasing practices and move towards an approach requiring interaction with overall business objectives, business market intelligence, total cost decision making, cross functional input, more integrated supply base, management of the entire supply chain and finally customer focus. This relationship approach causes a shift in purchasing philosophy from low price buying to total cost management. This paradigm shift from that of managing a transaction, to that of managing the cost of an entire business process, the process that starts with design of the product or service and ends with the ultimate disposal of the product or completion of the service, propels purchasing closer to strategic business issues. Finally, making recommendations on the basis of preconceived ideas is easier than coming up with advice based on evidence. Therefore, this study presents an opportunity and a point of departure for further research and debate in the areas of best practices and globalisation.
The interactions of employee engagement, telecommuting and performance for the future of work
Ravhudzulo, Hangwani Raymond (University of Pretoria, 2024-03)
The COVID-19 pandemic catalysed a monumental shift in the world of work, particularly in the Information Communication Technology sector, where telecommuting gained prominence. As organisations adapt to a ‘new normal’ owing to a transformation in workplace practices, it is imperative as dictated by the study’s objectives to understand the interactions of employee engagement, telecommuting propensity, and employee performance, more so in a developing country, like South Africa, in preparation for the future of work. The new global behavioural norm has forced organisations and employees to adapt quickly to the rapidly changing work environment. Global trends indicate a substantial increase in telecommuting adoption, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this has led to the emergence of some challenges to employee engagement and performance with profound implications for the healthy well-being of employees. More specifically, these challenges can instigate reduced employee engagement, increased turnover, and lower productivity, ultimately impacting organisational competitiveness and sustainability. This raises serious concerns as the success or failure of an organisation depends on its workforce, especially the extent to which they are engaged at work and are productive. With the uptake of telecommuting in the ICT sector that plays a critical role in the South African economy, any negative effects that emanate from the practice of telecommuting will potentially bode dire consequences for the future of work in South Africa. The ramifications of an inadequate comprehension of key employee outcomes and their correlation to telecommuting in a developing economy context such as South Africa, characterised by elevated unemployment rates are profound. Specifically, this study hypothesises direct relationships between employee engagement and telecommuting propensity, employee engagement and employee performance, as well as telecommuting propensity and employee performance. Further, this study hypothesises that telecommuting mediates and moderates the relationship between employee engagement and employee performance, as well as employee engagement dimensions (physical, cognitive, and emotional) and employee performance. Finally, in pursuit of the objective about moderated-moderation, this study analyses the moderating role of demographic variables, namely age, educational level, and organisational profile in the telecommuting propensity moderated relationship between employee engagement, its dimensions and employee performance. The results of this study will be instrumental to driving change by informing practice, guiding decision-making, and advancing knowledge in the domains of business management, human resources, and business strategy. Employee engagement is illuminated through the Employee Engagement Theory, and basically refers to an employee's emotional, physical, and cognitive commitment to their organisation. Telecommuting is elucidated through the Social Exchange Theory, and it explains the reciprocal relationship between employers and employees. Finally, employee performance is defined through the Triarchy Model of Employee Performance that encompasses task performance, contextual performance, and adaptive performance. This study employed a positivist, deductive, quantitative, and cross-sectional methodology in pursuit of its research objectives. To distribute the survey instrument, a combination of snowball, purposive, and self-selection sampling techniques was used. A total of 1368 questionnaires were distributed, although 1054 employees in the South African ICT sector accessed the survey. Of these, 478 responses were complete, resulting in an effective 45% response rate. Statistical techniques that encompassed descriptive statistics and inferential methods spanning factor analysis, correlation analysis, regression analysis, and structural equation modelling were employed in the study, to analyse and interpret the data as well as generate empirical findings. The study discovers direct, moderating, and moderated-moderation relationships among some of the study’s constructs. Employee engagement and physical engagement are positively related to employee performance. Further, employee engagement is positively related to telecommuting propensity while telecommuting propensity only moderates the relationship between cognitive engagement and employee performance as well as the relationship between emotional engagement and employee performance. The study also found nuanced moderated-moderation effects of age on relationships between some of the study’s constructs. In the new era of telecommuting, employees need to adapt, learn, and innovate. Organisations and managers must strive to ensure that the future of work is inclusive, collaborative, sustainable, and human-centred. In times of uncertainty like the COVID-19 pandemic, keeping employees engaged and productive is vital for organisational survival and continuity. Managers should encourage collaborative workspaces and face-to-face meetings to improve team bonding, knowledge sharing, and innovation in a bid to strengthen workplace relationships. In sectors like ICT, high employee engagement is key for productivity and employee performance, as engaged employees typically work more effectively towards organisational goals. This study provides novel empirical data, knowledge, and insights related to the interconnectedness of employee engagement, its dimensions, telecommuting propensity, and employee performance. Theoretically, this study makes a unique contribution to the fields of business management, human resources, and business strategy. Methodologically, this study provides empirical evidence by means of the introduction of telecommuting propensity as an intervening variable, while interrogating hypothesised relationships with structural equation modelling and the construction of reflective higher order constructs of employee engagement and employee performance. Practically, the study contributes - through actionable recommendations for organisations and managers to encourage preparedness and adaptation, for the future of work.
Investigating effectuation theory application in practice when evaluating a distressed venture opportunity
Madigoe, Thabang (University of Pretoria, 2024-02-13)
Once appointed, business rescue practitioners (BRPs) and turnaround professionals (TPs) are faced with critical decision-making as to whether a distressed venture remains viable. A distressed venture opportunity (DVO) is judged by reasonable prospect (RP), which is subject to different perceptions, opinions and interpretations by BRPs and TPs. Effectuation is applied by experts to the entrepreneurial opportunity; however, the question arises whether effectuation (or its elements) can be applied to the distressed venture and its associated decision-making. The aim of this generic qualitative study was to investigate and explore effectuation theory application to the DVO. In total, the study had 20 participants from the Gauteng province. Within the group of 15 BRPs, there were 10 TPs and five BRPs from a liquidation and legal background. Additionally, five business rescue trainees were interviewed and the data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The study revealed that all five effectuation principles are relevant to the DVO and both effectuation and causation are applied in a complementary manner and BRPs navigate between the two logics depending on the context. Effectuation principles are applied in the industry based on participants’ perceptions and several factors moderating the inclination towards effectuation and/or causation were explored. Notably, effectuation principles inform the choice for reorganisation/better return than in liquidation (BRiL)/liquidation and the bird-in-hand and the crazy-quilt principles were identified as critical, having a strong relationship with RP.
Relational leadership and trust in multi-actor groups
Makhubu, Ngobani Johnstone (University of Pretoria, 2024-06-30)
This thesis, Relational leadership and trust in multi-actor groups, used a South African public institution with a history of trust impairment to explore relational leadership accomplishment in multi-actor groups constituted by CEOs, including the role trust played in such settings. Resonance and trust at interpersonal and interorganisational level emerged as key themes through which investigated groups achieved high quality relating and communicating. Consequently, resonance was hypothesised to unlock flows-of-influence which enable leadership manifestation. The thesis contributes to knowledge by identifying resonance as fundamental in the social construction of leadership, its novelty is in seamlessly integrating resonance, trust and relational leadership. Interpersonal and interorganisational trust emerged as forces that instigate and reinforce group relationships, rendering trust central to the social construction of leadership. Lastly, a resonance-enabled relational social constructionist leadership framework is proposed to advance leadership theory and practice of leadership.

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