Individual dynamic managerial capabilities: Influence over environmental and social commitment under a gender perspective

Abstract

The current business market is characterized by rapid and continuous changes. Companies should adapt to new situations to guarantee sustainable development. Managers need to have capabilities to understand the new environment’s requirements. Managers’ individual dynamic capabilities (IDC) help them face these unpredictable changes in the market. However, few authors have analysed individual dynamic capabilities to ensure business sustainability. This study aims to shed light on the relationship between a manager’s IDC and business sustainability from a gender perspective. A survey of 339 managers was conducted, and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was applied to study the impact of the relationship. The results show that managers’ individual dynamic capabilities help them detect changes in the market earlier and promote a greater social and environmental commitment from those managers. In addition, significant differences in the environmental and social commitment between men and women were found. Therefore, this paper first provides advice for developing business sustainability to provide an advantage for organizations. Second, individual dynamic managerial capabilities appear to be important for promoting sustainability. Finally, another step in the construction of gender and sustainability is provided. Thus, this paper provides useful empirical evidence for managerial practice from a strategic management viewpoint.