On the relevance of twice born leaders within the context of digitization and organizational change

Abstract

Digitization is impacting and transforming organizations, making it the main driver of organizational change. This impact is putting pressure on organizations how to manage and operate their activities. Therefore, leaders need to understand the implications of digitization and organizational change in order to succeed. This study investigates the relevance of William James twice born concept within the context of digitization and organizational change. As this research is employing a mixed method approach, it offers different organizational perspectives by interviewing leading positions and surveying employees. Findings revealed no significant impact of digitization and organizational change on the emergence of twice born leaders. However, results indicated a need of leadership traits associated with the twice born concept in order to successfully navigate organizational change. These needed leadership traits align with several contemporary concepts emphasizing the relevance of William James twice born concept within todays context. Meanwhile, the study revealed limitations in contributing to the ongoing debate between the need for managers and leaders. Therefore, this study suggests future research to focus on specific organizational contexts in order to provide more nuanced insights about traits needed in specific organizational environments.

Date of Award	3 Apr 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Fernando Ilharco (Supervisor)