Leading to excellence: how workplace dignity and error management shape the relationship between superior leadership and superior performance in the Saudi healthcare sector

Purpose This study aims to investigate the connection between superior leadership (SL) and superior performance (SP), with particular attention to the moderating effect of workplace dignity (WD) and the mediating role of error management (EM). Design/methodology/approach Data was collected from a random sample of 324 employees within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used for data analysis. Findings The results confirm positive relationships between SL, EM and SP. SL directly enhances both EM and SP by empowering subordinates and fostering a positive error culture. EM, in turn, positively impacts SP. The findings validate EM as a mediator, showing that SL improves performance by enhancing error management. Crucially, WD moderates the EM-SP relationship; the link is stronger when WD is high, highlighting the importance of a respectful environment for learning from mistakes and improving performance. Originality/value This study offers several contributions by pioneering an integrated model that simultaneously examines EM as a mediator and WD as a moderator in the SP relationship, moving beyond fragmented prior research. Methodologically, it applies PLS-SEM in the under-researched Saudi healthcare context, providing valuable non-Western data. Practically, it reveals that the effectiveness of EM on performance is conditional upon workplace dignity, offering novel, actionable insights for managers to develop holistic improvement strategies.