MANAGING CHANGE IN THE AGE OF DISRUPTION: LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES FOR THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION

Abstract

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) has brought profound disruptions to business operations, governance, and workforce dynamics. As organizations face rapid technological change, effective leadership has become a critical success factor. This paper explores the essential leadership competencies required to manage change in an era shaped by artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation. Through a mixed-methods study involving surveys and interviews with 38 leaders from Malaysia’s technology, education, and manufacturing sectors, the research identifies five core competencies: digital literacy, emotional intelligence, adaptive thinking, inclusive communication, and strategic foresight. Findings suggest that traditional leadership models must be reimagined to prioritize agility, continuous learning, and cross-functional collaboration. The study proposes a competency framework to guide leadership development programs in both corporate and public sector institutions.