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This study investigates the direct and indirect relationship between leadership change and employee readiness to change, with organizational culture and organizational commitment serving as mediators in open online flexible distance learning higher education institutions. Primary data was collected through survey questionnaires distributed via email to selected participants using purposive sampling. Out of 483 distributed surveys, 380 were collected, yielding a satisfactory response rate of 78.6%, with 353 surveys deemed suitable for analysis. SmartPLS 4 software was employed to conduct data analysis and hypothesis testing using structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques. The hypotheses testing results reveal several key findings. Leadership change was found to directly influence employee readiness to change, as well as indirect effects mediated by organizational culture and commitment. Organizational culture and commitment were also shown to impact employee readiness to change directly. The study highlights the varied impact of the variables, with effect sizes ranging from small to large. To enhance employee readiness to change effectively, the study suggests that open online flexible distance learning higher education institutions should adopt a multifaceted approach focusing on leadership development, organizational culture, and commitment. Investing in transformational leadership skills, cultivating a culture of innovation and collaboration, and fostering organizational commitment are crucial for navigating change successfully. Future studies should explore how different leadership styles impact employee readiness for change within the unique context of online higher education, investigate the moderating role of technological advancements and the digital landscape, and consider the implications of organizational culture and commitment on employee attitudes towards change over time. By understanding these relationships, institutions can better support their employees and create an environment conducive to change and growth in online higher education.
Osman et al. (Wed,) studied this question.