THE MEDIATING EFFECT OF SOCIAL NETWORK ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND SUCCESSION PLANNING

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to examine the influence of social network as mediating variable on the relationship between leadership development and succession planning systems. Succession planning and leadership development are significant due to they tied in essential objective which is it, attracting the right person to the right place. The study conducted in Education ministry in Bahrain which they are working hard to prepare the safe replacement of leaders who are leaving their positions due to retirement, illness or moving to other government institutions. The Ministry of Education deliberately set a plan of training and development with opportunity of decision making participation to allow the mid-level leaders close to the decision making process. The study findings acknowledge that the indirect effect of leadership development successfully mediating the relationship with succession planning. It is recommended that the Ministry of Education in Bahrain, identify the potential vacancy dates for all officer positions within the organization. In addition, the reorganizing of the acting officers’ pool to accommodate the rotating of individuals through the positions, to expand their knowledge and experience about a particular position would also address the issue of obtaining a broad experience base. Knowing when positions could possibly become vacant allows internal candidates to plan their career path development and avail themselves of all opportunities provided.