Abstract:
ABSTRACT
This study explores the impact of traditional (bureaucratic) and transformational
leadership styles on the organizational performance of the Tanzania Airports Authority
(TAA). The main problem addressed is understanding how these distinct leadership
styles coexist and influence performance. The research objectives include examining
the prevalence of bureaucratic leadership, evaluating the display of transformational
leadership behaviors, and determining the effects of both styles on organizational
outcomes. A quantitative research approach was employed, using a cross-sectional
design. Data were gathered from 110 respondents through a structured questionnaire,
with a simple random sampling method used to ensure a representative sample. Data
analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and linear regression to investigate
the relationship between leadership styles and performance. The findings show that
bureaucratic leadership is widely practiced at TAA, marked by centralized decision-
making and a focus on seniority. Regression analysis identified a strong negative
correlation between bureaucratic leadership and organizational performance (R = -
0.862), indicating that increased reliance on this style is linked to lower performance
levels. In contrast, transformational leadership behaviors such as motivating staff,
encouraging innovation, and fostering open communication were observed to have a
moderate positive effect on performance (R = 0.310). Transformational leadership
explained 9.6% of the variance in performance, highlighting its positive but limited
impact. In conclusion, the study found that TAA’s leadership culture combines
elements of both bureaucratic and transformational styles. While bureaucratic
leadership hampers flexibility and responsiveness, transformational leadership
contributes positively to organizational performance. It is recommended that TAA
adopt more transformational leadership practices, focus on empowering employees,
and implement policy changes that encourage innovation and open dialogue.
Additionally, enhancing leadership development programs could further boost
organizational effectiveness and adaptability.
