Confirmatory Factor Analysis of an Innovative Leadership Model for Private Universities in Hainan

Purpose: This study examined and quantitatively validated an innovative leadership model for administrators of private universities in Hainan Province, China, in response to increasing demands for organizational innovation and digital transformation within the Hainan Free Trade Port context. Research design, data and methodology: The study reports the quantitative phase of a broader research project on innovative leadership. Preliminary variables were identified and refined through literature review and structured interviews in the first qualitative phase. In the present phase, quantitative data were collected from 429 faculty members using a 48-item questionnaire. Exploratory factor analysis and second-order confirmatory factor analysis were employed, with 45 retained items aggregated into 15 composite indicators for examine the factor structure and validate the proposed model. Results: The results initially supported 16 innovative leadership variables. One variable, Models Learning, was removed because of weak factor loadings in the exploratory factor analysis. The remaining variables were organized into five dimensions: Supportive Organizational Environment, Digital Connectivity, Innovative Capability, Collaborative Team Culture, and Innovative Strategic Orientation. Conclusions: The findings suggest that innovative leadership in private universities is a multidimensional construct. The validated model provides a context-specific structure for understanding and assessing innovative leadership among administrators in private universities in Hainan Province.