The Impact of Leader Sensemaking Competence on Expatriate Agility During Economic Uncertainty: The Mediating Roles of Perceived Organisational Support and Self-Efficacy

Grounded in social information processing (SIP) theory, this study investigates how leader sensemaking competence (LSC) affects expatriate agility (EA) during economic downturns, considering the mediating roles of perceived organisational support (POS) and self-efficacy (SE). Survey data from 283 expatriates in Thailand reveal that LSC positively influences EA, with POS and SE mitigating the link. The study advances expatriate management literature by using the SIP theory and empirical evidence, emphasising the importance of leaders’ cognitive abilities and organisational support in promoting EA during global crises. The findings provide practical guidance for organisations aiming to develop a resilient expatriate workforce capable of navigating economic uncertainty in international business operations.