Abstract:
The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of leadership styles (independent variable) and organizational culture (mediating variable)on the innovativeness (dependent variable) of estate managers in the Sri Lankan plantation sector. Data were collected using disproportionate, stratified random sampling method of 235 estate managers based on four point Likert scale method. Correlational analysis was used using a cross-sectional time-horizon. The unit of analysis was at the individual level. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data and test the reliability and validity of all the measurement scales. Regression analysis was used to test the research hypothesis. The findings revealed that there existed a relationship between the study variables. Further, findings of this study largely support the hypothesized relationships proposed in the research framework. The study results clearly provide a guide to understand, develop and implement a strategy of the components of organizational innovativeness through the most effective combination of leadership styles and organizational culture in the plantation sector.