The impact of strategic leadership on strategic performance in higher education institutions: The mediating role of change management.

ABSTRACT This study aims to identify the impact of strategic leadership (SL) in enhancing strategic performance (SP) using the balanced scorecard (BSC) approach in Jordanian higher education institutions. In addition to identifying what change management (CM) can provide in explaining the role of SL in enhancing SP. The study population consisted of all official universities in Jordan, which numbered (11) official universities. The study followed a comprehensive survey method, where questionnaires were distributed to all official universities. The sampling unit consisted of deans of colleges in official Jordanian universities. The sample size was 350 respondents. The recovered questionnaires were (238) questionnaires. The results of analyzing the study data indicated that there was an effect for all dimensions of SL on SP. The study also found that all dimensions of SL affect SP in Jordanian official universities. Finally, the results of the data analysis indicated that the CM variable plays a mediating role in the impact of SL on SP. Based on the results, the study recommends the need for Jordanian official universities to pay attention to strengthening aspects of SL among current and future leaders and raising them to higher levels.