Love deeper, think further: the impact of founder CEO on digitalization orientation in China

Purpose Despite the growing body of literature examining CEO-level antecedents of digitalization orientation, the impact of a CEO’s founder identity remains elusive. Drawing on stewardship theory, this study aims to investigate the impact of a CEO’s founder identity on digitalization orientation and its boundary conditions. Design/methodology/approach Using data from Chinese listed firms with founders between 2012 and 2023, this paper estimates with correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis. Findings Specifically, this study find that founder CEOs exhibit a stronger strategic emphasis on digitalization orientation. This propensity stems from their founder identity, an attribute that drives long-term thinking and risk tolerance. Furthermore, independent directors weaken the positive relationship between founder CEOs and digitalization orientation, whereas industry competition strengthens this relationship. Originality/value This research offers new theoretical and practical insights into the study of digitalization and the unique role of founder CEOs.