INFLUENCES OF LEADERSHIP, RESOURCES, AND WORK ENVIRONMENT ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY AT THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS IN SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

This empirical study explores the interrelationships between leadership styles, resource allocation, and work environment, and their collective impact on employee performance at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Saudi Arabia. Employing a quantitative research methodology, the study analyzed responses from a diverse sample of employees across various departments within the Ministry, achieving a high response rate which enhances the generalizability of the findings. The results indicate that democratic leadership styles are significantly associated with higher employee performance, underscoring the value of inclusive and participative management practices. Adequate resource allocation, especially in terms of access to technological tools and professional development opportunities, was found to be crucial in enhancing employee productivity and satisfaction. Additionally, a supportive work environment—characterized by positive interpersonal relations and organizational support—significantly boosts employee morale and performance.
These findings corroborate and extend theories in transformational leadership and resource-based views, highlighting how the strategic management of human and material resources can significantly influence employee outcomes in a public sector context. The study recommends the adoption of democratic leadership training, strategic resource distribution policies, and initiatives to foster a supportive work environment. These changes are poised to enhance organizational efficiency and employee satisfaction, aligning with broader governmental goals under Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
The study’s cross-sectional design limits causal inference, suggesting a need for longitudinal research to observe the effects of interventions over time. This research contributes to the strategic management literature by providing a nuanced understanding of how leadership, resources, and environment interact to affect employee performance, offering actionable insights for policymakers and administrators within the public sector.