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Impact of public leadership on public service motivation and performance in complex environments

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  • Safyan Tahir Verka
  • Meghna Sabharwal
  • Shazia Hassan

Abstract

This study empirically investigates the effects of public leadership (PL) on job performance (JP) and notes the mediating role of public service motivation (PSM) and the moderating role of environmental complexity (ENC) between PSM and JP. The research framework was tested using a survey of 211 civil servants working in Pakistan. The findings indicate significant positive effects of PL on JP. This relationship was partially mediated by PSM. Additionally, this study found that ENC negatively moderates the positive relationship of PSM and JP and dampens the effect of PSM on JP. The managerial implication of this study is to translate PSM into improved JP by reducing environmental complexities. Suggestions for future research are also presented.

Suggested Citation

  • Safyan Tahir Verka & Meghna Sabharwal & Shazia Hassan, 2025. "Impact of public leadership on public service motivation and performance in complex environments," Public Administration & Development, Blackwell Publishing, vol. 45(1), pages 16-31, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:padxxx:v:45:y:2025:i:1:p:16-31
    DOI: 10.1002/pad.2069
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    References listed on IDEAS

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