Abstract

Improving productivity has become a major goal in virtually every organization. High productivity can lead to economic growth and development. This explains why effective leadership and productivity issues seem to be paramount on the agenda of most world leaders especially those in Africa. Many organizations are paralyzed by situations in which people appeal for direction, feeling immobile and discouraged by the sense that they are not being led. The question is, is there a link or relationship between leadership style and improved productivity in public sector organizations, which can address the above issue of concern? The contribution of leadership in the public sector in achieving higher productivity cannot be underestimated; therefore the study investigated the different leadership styles used in the Volta River Authority and Municipal Hospital, both in Wa. The study adopted both qualitative and quantitative approaches, employing comparative case-study methodology. The target population for this study was based on two service providing organizations, one utility and the other providing medical services. The sample size for the study was drawn from both Volta River Authority and Municipal Hospital, Wa. Since the frame is small the entire population of the leadership was used, other words known as purposive or judgmental sampling. This enabled judgments to be employed to select cases which helped answer the research questions and meet objectives. This research has brought to light that leadership does have some level of influence on the productivity in the organization. The study also established that leadership’s role in the attainment of productivity in the public sector organizations is crucial. In view of the findings, the following recommendations are made; leaders in the two institutions should consider their actions carefully for improved productivity, since it came out at certain places that subordinates viewed and interpreted leaders/management actions differently. People tend to be more loyal if they are a part of a united focused team. The employees that do not feel a part of the team also lacked motivation and drive. Therefore employees should be empowered, trained and supported to become more productive