A Middle Management Perspective on Strategy Implementation

Abstract

Middle managers play critical roles in the implementation of organizational strategies. Yet, little is known about the views of middle managers on the organizational factors influencing strategy implementation. This paper is an attempt to extend existing understandings on the organizational factors influencing strategy implementation from the viewpoints of middle managers, including the contribution of middle managers in the implementation of organizational strategies and the challenges associated with the implementation process. Data were collected using semistructured in-depth email interviews with 12 middle managers. This research demonstrates that management style, strategic alignment, internal communication, and middle management contribution are critical factors influencing strategy implementation.