Factors influencing leadership development in an uncertain environment

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to understand the factors influencing leadership development (LD). It responds to the following question: what are the factors influencing the phenomenon of LD in the Syrian context.Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative research method has been adopted, using face-to-face interviews with leaders in middle and top management.Findings – The findings revealed that there are two types of factor influencing LD: determinant factors to LD and influencing factors on the application of LD.Research limitations/implications – Research data has been conducted in an unstable environment because of what is called the Arab Spring, so data were collected only from for-profit sector companies that presented more flexibility for participation than state and non-profit sector organisations.Practical implications – The paper explored two different types of factors influencing LD: factors influencing the application of LD, and factors determining LD. This helps designers of LD programmes and companies operating in Syrian context to differentiate between these two factors.Originality/value – The study offers data and interpretation on factors influencing LD in a specific context on which foundation further studies in the Middle Eastern context can be developed.