Unlocking Intrapreneurial Success: The Interplay of Entrepreneurial Leadership and Orientation in Established Organizations

This study investigates the interplay between Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO), Entrepreneurial Leadership (EL), and intrapreneurship success in established organisations. It examines the mediating role of EO and highlights gender-based differences in the pathways linking EL and intrapreneurship success. A quantitative research approach was adopted, with data collected from 456 participants attending professional development workshops in the Saudi hospitality and tourism industry. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was employed to test the hypothesised relationships. A reverse causality test was also conducted to confirm the robustness of the model. The results show EO significantly predicts intrapreneurship success, while EL indirectly influences intrapreneurship success through EO, underscoring the mediating role of EO. Gender differences reveal that EL indirectly impacts intrapreneurship success for both males and females, though structural barriers may limit female outcomes. Reverse causality testing confirms the unidirectional relationship from EO to EL, supporting the robustness of the model. Thus, this study contributes to the growing body of research on intrapreneurship by providing empirical evidence from Saudi Arabia, a rapidly transforming emerging market. The paper emphasizes the importance of fostering EO and EL to drive intrapreneurship success and provides practical insights for policymakers and organisational leaders in emerging economies. Future studies can build upon the limitations identified in this research to incorporate more diverse perspectives.