Entrepreneurial leadership for project success through big data capabilities, sustainable resilience and knowledge sabotage behaviour

Purpose This paper is drawn on resource-based theory (RBV), dynamic capability theory (DCV) and situational strength theory (SST). It aims to investigate the relationship of entrepreneurial leadership (EL) on project success (PS) through the mediating role of dynamic capabilities (DCs), big data analytic capability (BDAC) and sustainable resilience (SR). It also explores the moderating effect of knowledge sabotage behaviour (KSB) on the relationship of BDAC and SR with PS. Design/methodology/approach Data was collected via Questionnaire survey through convenience sampling from the sample of 550 employees working on project in software companies. Of these, 467 response was deemed valid for analysis. The data was analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) with SMART-PLS tool. Findings The study revealed a significant impact of EL on PS (p < 0.05). It also confirmed the significant mediating role of BDAC and SR (p < 0.05) in EL and PS relationship. These findings emphasize that adapting an entrepreneurial leadership style provides an environment conducive to achieving project success. Moreover, the presence of DCs like BDAC and SR enhances the organization adaptability, efficiency and firms’ endurance to disruption and strengthens their ability to navigate challenges and drive firm outcomes. Originality/value The research provides valuable insight into the role of EL as a contemporary leadership style in project-based firms that are marked by high risk and uncertainty. Also, this research is the first to examine the role of DCs, i.e. BDAC and SR as essential support in the execution of a project. Moreover, the research also highlights the importance of the effective role of DCs in achieving PS by mitigating the moderating influence of KSB. Thus, these DCs are empirically proven to facilitate EL in-driving project success in volatile environment while avoiding counterproductive work behaviour.