Innovation is a key driver of competitive advantage and sustainable development in the manufacturing industry. However, empirical research on innovative work behavior in the Thai context remains limited. This study examined the influence of transformational leadership on employees’ innovative work behavior, with team climate for innovation as a mediating variable, in a plastic parts manufacturing organization in Thailand that continuously implements Kaizen practices. A cross-sectional quantitative research design was employed, collecting data from 201 employees working in both office and factory units who were required to propose new ideas for improving their work. The questionnaire demonstrated high reliability, and path analysis was conducted to test the hypothesized model. The results revealed that transformational leadership had a significant positive effect on team climate for innovation, which in turn positively influenced employees’ innovative work behavior. However, the direct effect of transformational leadership on innovative work behavior was not statistically significant, indicating that a supportive team climate serves as a full mediator and a key mechanism linking leadership and innovation outcomes. The findings suggest that organizations should integrate transformational leadership with strategies that strengthen team climate for innovation. Managers can achieve this by setting clear innovation goals aligned with organizational strategies, communicating them effectively, and inspiring team members to work collaboratively toward those goals. Moreover, managers should act as open-minded role models who create psychological safety, encourage reflection and learning from mistakes, and provide constructive feedback and resources that enable employees to develop and apply innovative ideas confidently.

Authors:
Korkiat Mahaveerachartkul, National Institute of Development Administration, Thailand
Warunee Meema, National Institute of Development Administration, Thailand

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Korkiat Mahaveerachartkul is currently a lecturer at the School of Human Resource Development, National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA).

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Korkiat-Mahaveerachartkul

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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