The role of top management support in the implementation of public sector supply chain management in the public sector in Harare, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The study investigated the role of top management support in the implementation of public sector supply chain management practices with specific reference to public procuring entities in Harare, Zimbabwe. In order to achieve the intended research objectives, the study used a quantitative research design where 217 questionnaires were distributed to both employees and management. The study found that top management from the public procuring entities did not provide adequate necessary information and communicationtechnological tools necessary for effective supply chain management planning. It was also revealed that the top management in the public procuring entities does not provide an organizational vision that embraces supply chain management continual improvement. Furtherance, the study concluded that there is no commitment supported by adequate resources on the implementation of supply chain management practices and strategies from the top management in the public sector procuring entities. The study recommends that it should be the role of management to implement realistic objectives and provide supply chain management related training to their employees, enhance teamwork effort and provide priority and attention to internal and external customers. The support of senior management support would greatly influence the successful implementation of supply chain management practices in public procuring entities.