Renewal Leadership as a Strategic Approach to Achieving Digital Maturity: An Applied Study at Al-Kut Private University

Abstract

This research aims to demonstrate the role of innovative leadership as a strategic approach to achieving digital maturity. It does so by examining the nature of the causal relationship between innovative leadership (independent variable) and digital maturity (dependent variable) at Al-Kut Private University. The study stems from the growing need within higher education institutions to enhance their digital readiness in light of rapid technological advancements, and the resulting need for leadership styles capable of driving profound organizational change. The study employs a descriptive-analytical methodology, and data was collected through a questionnaire distributed to a sample of 90 university employees from both academic and administrative levels. Innovative leadership comprises five main dimensions: comprehensive vision, conscious development, ethical purpose, collaborative partnership, and profound transformation. Digital maturity is measured across dimensions including digital strategy, organizational culture and readiness, digital operational processes and transformation, and innovation and sustainable digital value. Descriptive statistical methods and path analysis using SmartPLS 4 software were employed to test the study's hypotheses. The results showed a strong, statistically significant positive relationship between innovative leadership and digital maturity. Innovative leadership explained a large proportion of the variance in digital maturity levels, underscoring its pivotal role in supporting institutional digital transformation. The results also revealed relative variations in the levels of some dimensions of digital maturity, particularly processes, operational transformation, and digital innovation, indicating a need to enhance the practical application of digital strategic directions. The study concluded with a set of findings and recommendations emphasizing the importance of investing in leadership development, process re-engineering, and fostering a digital culture as essential pathways to achieving advanced levels of digital maturity in higher education institutions.