First Embrace Cultural Nuances and Then Adapt Your Leadership Style: Qualitative Insights from Senior Bank Executives in Sierra Leone

In the vibrant yet complex landscape of post-conflict Sierra Leone, this study investigates the influence of cultural dimensions on the leadership styles of senior executives in the banking sector. It focuses on transformational and transactional leadership approaches to understand how these styles are shaped by the socio-cultural fabric of the region. The study employs Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis to delve into the narratives of ten CEOs from diverse commercial banks. This qualitative approach revealed eight compelling themes that illustrate the impact of cultural dimensions on leadership practices. The findings reveal that effective leadership in Sierra Leone transcends conventional models. It requires a delicate balance between authority and empathy, tradition and innovation. The study highlights the necessity for culturally attuned leadership development programs that resonate with the local ethos, empowering leaders to navigate the complex relationship between expectations and realities in a post-conflict society. The research offers practical implications for organisational policies and training initiatives in Sierra Leone and across various sectors on the continent. It underscores the importance of developing leadership programs that are culturally sensitive and adaptive to the unique challenges faced in post-conflict environments. This research enriches the theoretical landscape of leadership studies by providing insights into the dynamic relationship between culture and leadership in developing economies. It advocates for longitudinal studies and cross-sectoral investigations to further explore this relationship, contributing to a narrative that champions cultural sensitivity and adaptive leadership.