Strategic leadership and its role in outstanding performance: An analytical study in a sample of private universities in Baghdad

Abstract

This research aims to identify the role of strategic leadership, through its dimensions (clarity of strategic direction, rational use of authority, and ethical and value framework), in achieving outstanding performance in the private universities included in the research sample. (153) valid questionnaires were distributed to the research sample, which included senior and middle management. The data were processed and analyzed using several statistical methods, most notably (arithmetic mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, Pearson correlation coefficient, and simple linear regression) using the SPSS V28 statistical software. One of the most important conclusions reached by the research is the existence of a statistically significant correlation between strategic leadership (with its three dimensions: clarity of strategic direction, rational use of authority, and ethical and value framework) and the level of outstanding performance in private universities. This indicates that adopting these dimensions contributes to enhancing the universities' ability to improve their focus on beneficiaries, develop their internal processes, and improve their human resource management as key inputs for institutional excellence. The research recommends the necessity of adopting an integrated strategic leadership system in private universities, based on developing clear and updated documents and strategies, promoting organized delegation of powers, establishing the ethical framework, building leadership and human capacities, and supporting a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, in a way that contributes to raising the levels of institutional performance and achieving excellence in the higher education environment.