Supply chain resilience during COVID-19 pandemic: role of market orientation, knowledge management orientation and innovative capability

Purpose This paper explores the direct relationships between market orientation (MO), knowledge management orientation (KMO), innovative capability (IC) and supply chain resilience (SCRES). Moreover, the indirect effects of both MO and KMO on SCRES through IC are also examined. Design/methodology/approach A theoretical model developed from the extant literature was empirically validated through a cross-sectional survey of 195 manufacturing firms in Uganda during the COVID-19 pandemic. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Findings The study found that there are positive and significant direct effects of MO and KMO on IC. KMO and IC have positive and significant effects on SCRES, while the positive relationship between MO and SCRES is non-significant. Furthermore, the results indicate that the effects of both MO and KMO on SCRES are partially mediated by IC. Originality/value Empirical evidence is provided on the antecedents of SCRES in a developing economy in the context of COVID-19. Moreover, a multidisciplinary model incorporating marketing, knowledge management and innovation literature to explain the SCRES phenomenon is validated. Further, the partial mediating role of IC is examined and confirmed.