The Impact of Strategic Management on Operational Performance: Investigating the Mediating Role of Organizational Culture in the Saudi Steel Manufacturing Sector

This study examines the impact of strategic management on operational performance in the Saudi steel manufacturing sector, focusing on the mediating role of organizational culture. A quantitative research approach was employed, with data collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 341 employees from various steel manufacturing companies. The Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) technique was utilized to test the proposed hypotheses and assess the relationships between strategic management practices, organizational culture, and operational performance. Results indicated that strategic management significantly influences operational performance, and organizational culture plays a crucial mediating role in enhancing this relationship. The findings highlight the importance of fostering a robust organizational culture to optimize the effectiveness of strategic management initiatives, ultimately improving operational performance in the steel manufacturing sector. This research provides valuable insights for managers and policymakers aiming to enhance performance in industrial sectors through strategic management and cultural alignment.