Women's Leadership Characteristics Role on Agricultural Supply Chain Effectiveness: A Study of Women's Experiences and Perspectives in Vietnam

Abstract

Effective leadership has emerged as a critical determinant in enhancing supply chain (SC) performance and is increasingly recognised globally for its role in improving business outcomes. Despite its importance, further scholarly attention is warranted. This study investigates the influence of women's leadership traits—specifically, team collaboration, adaptability, and prompt responsiveness—on the effectiveness of the agricultural SC in Vietnam. Additionally, it explores the mediating function of team effectiveness in the relationship between these leadership traits and agricultural SC performance. Primary data were collected through survey questionnaires distributed to women engaged in the agricultural sector. The study assessed data reliability and the interrelationships among the variables using Smart-PLS. The findings revealed that team collaboration, adaptability, and responsiveness positively correlate with agricultural SC effectiveness in the Vietnamese context. Furthermore, team effectiveness was found to significantly mediate the relationship between these leadership characteristics and SC performance. These insights offer valuable guidance for policymakers in formulating strategies aimed at enhancing agricultural SC outcomes through the development of women's leadership capacities.