Dynamics of strategic implementation in higher education in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Pakistan) with focus on the role of middle management

This study looks into various aspects of strategy execution in the context of higher education institutions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Pakistan). Most studies on this subject have been conducted in developed countries leaving much room for understanding in a context characterized by a weak regulatory framework, unique socio-cultural traditions, and a complex political environment in a country like Pakistan. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect data from respondents selected through stratified random sampling technique in both academic and administrative sections of universities. The Structure Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed for exploratory and confirmatory factory analyses while Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM 3.0) was used for the measurement of path models of the study. The results show that the role of middle management was significant in terms of championing alternative strategic options, synthesizing information, and executing deliberate strategy whereas it was insignificant in facilitating adaptability. The results of this study have theoretical significance in that it looks at strategy implementation from the perspective of a developing country. Practically, the results suggest giving more power to middle management in all aspects of strategic management. The results, however, have to be understood with some of the study’s limitations that have been discussed later at length.