Thesis:

Impact of leadership styles on employee productivity in public sector organizations: case study of NHIF Mandera county

The aim of this research was to assess the influence of different leadership styles on employee productivity within NHIF Mandera County, focusing on autocratic, democratic, laissez-faire, and charismatic leadership styles. The study was guided by the following specific research objectives; to assess the impact of autocratic leadership style, to examine the effects of democratic leadership style, to explore the influence of laissez-faire leadership style, to evaluate the impact of charismatic leadership style on employee productivity in NHIF Mandera County. The study was guided by two theories which are; utilizing Transformational Leadership Theory and Herzberg's Two Factor Theory. A descriptive survey design was employed in conducting this study. The target population was 165 respondents. Census sampling was used for the study. Data from primary sources were used. Data from the primary was gathered using a semi structured questionnaire. The data that has been gathered was examined to see whether or not there are any gaps, inaccuracies, omissions, or other types of irregularities. SPSS Version 23.0 was used alongside MS Excel software to obtain both descriptive and inferential statistics. In the study, descriptive statistics was provided in the form of tables, bar charts, and graphs. These statistics entailed the usage of the mean as well as the standard deviation. The Pearson correlation coefficient and the OLS approach via regression was used as part of the inferential statistics in order to determine the nature of the relation that exists between the study's various variables. The study examined the impact of leadership styles—autocratic, democratic, laissez-faire, and charismatic—on employee productivity in NHIF Mandera County. A descriptive survey design was utilized, collecting data from 119 respondents, yielding a 95.2% response rate. The findings revealed that autocratic leadership was linked to efficient task completion (mean score = 4.12) but limited employee input (mean score = 3.92), affecting overall job clarity. Democratic leadership showed a weak connection with employee participation in decision-making (mean score = 2.92), indicating a need for better communication and team collaboration. Laissez-faire leadership allowed for autonomy but lacked managerial support, with a mean score of 2.47 for guidance provision. Charismatic leadership demonstrated moderate influence on motivation and productivity (mean score = 3.81). The study concluded that while autocratic leadership improves task efficiency, it negatively impacts employee engagement. Democratic and laissez-faire leadership styles require adjustments to increase participation and support. Charismatic leadership enhances productivity but needs stronger motivational strategies. The study recommends leadership development programs focusing on enhancing democratic involvement and providing structured support under laissez-faire leadership. Further, it suggests integrating motivational techniques within charismatic leadership to improve long-term employee commitment and productivity.