The Role of Leadership in Driving Sustainable Development Goals Integration in Corporate Social Responsibility: A Systematic Literature Review

ABSTRACT This systematic literature review investigates the pivotal role of leadership in integrating the sustainable development goals (SDGs) within corporate social responsibility (CSR) frameworks. By synthesizing insights from 152 peer‐reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2024, this study identifies key leadership styles and practices that effectively drive SDG integration in organizational CSR strategies. The analysis highlights leadership dimensions such as ethical leadership, strategic vision, resource mobilization, crisis adaptability, innovation facilitation, and stakeholder engagement as critical enablers of sustainability outcomes. Additionally, the review explores challenges faced by leaders, including balancing short‐term business priorities with long‐term sustainability goals, ensuring transparent performance measurement, and fostering cross‐sector collaboration. The findings underscore the significance of adaptive, responsible, and innovative leadership approaches in embedding SDGs into CSR practices, thereby enhancing corporate contributions to global development. This study offers practical recommendations for leaders and policymakers to strengthen organizational sustainability initiatives and advocates for leadership‐driven CSR strategies aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.