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Managers’ Perspectives into Skills Required for Young Professionals to Assume Leadership Roles in A Public Company in South Africa

  • Jul 1, 2026
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Abstract Book of the 11th International Conference on Management, Economics and Finance

Year: 2026

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Managers’ Perspectives into Skills Required for Young Professionals to Assume Leadership Roles in A Public Company in South Africa

Bongane Sandlane, Cecile Gerwel Proches

ABSTRACT:

The evolving landscape of public sector entities in South Africa necessitates a strong pipeline of capable young leaders to drive strategic transformation and operational efficiency. The study context is a public company in South Africa, which plays a crucial role in managing a vast and diverse property portfolio. As the company navigates a complex and evolving business environment, the development of future leadership from within its pool of young professionals is critical to ensuring long-term organisational sustainability. The research examined the perspectives of managers at the public company regarding the essential skills young professionals need to assume leadership roles within the organisation. A qualitative research approach was employed, and participants were purposefully selected. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine regional managers in the leasing, operations and facilities management department. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed six key skills that are required by young professionals to assume leadership roles: emotional intelligence and awareness, visionary and strategic thinking, transformative and adaptability, people and relationship management, ethics and values, and communication and collaboration. The research also identified several challenges faced by young professionals in the public company in their pursuit of leadership roles. This study highlights the importance of targeted skills development initiatives that respond to managerial expectations and organisational objectives to foster the growth of competent future leaders.

Keywords: Challenges; Leaders; Leadership Development; Management