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Technology-Independent Directors and Innovative Knowledge Assets: A Contingency Perspective

Author

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  • Yexin Liu

    (School of Economics and Management, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai 264209, China)

  • Weiwei Wu

    (School of Management, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China)

  • Ruixiang Han

    (School of Economics and Management, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai 264209, China)

Abstract

In the current dynamic and competitive environment, the sustainable competitive advantage of firms has flowed to the development of innovative knowledge assets. Drawing on resource dependence theory, this paper develops a contingency research model to explore how technology-independent directors affect innovative knowledge assets. A sample of Chinese manufacturing firms listed on Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges between 2010 and 2019 was used for the regression analysis. By employing the fixed effect model, the results show that technology-independent directors have a significant positive impact on innovative knowledge assets. Furthermore, the impact of technology-independent directors on innovative knowledge assets is strengthened in the firms that are state-owned, larger, and older. These results provide important insights related to innovation research.

Suggested Citation

  • Yexin Liu & Weiwei Wu & Ruixiang Han, 2021. "Technology-Independent Directors and Innovative Knowledge Assets: A Contingency Perspective," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(16), pages 1-17, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:16:p:9106-:d:614355
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