Preliminary Proceedings of the International Conference on Economics, Finance & Business, Vienna

HYBRID LEADERSHIP STYLE IN KIBBUTZ INDUSTRY PROMOTING SUSTAINABILITY

YAFFA MOSKOVICH, ORNA ACHRAI

Abstract:

The present study deals with leadership in three kibbutz factories—two in privatized communities and one in a cooperative community. The factory leaders integrate multiple leadership styles in managing their enterprises. This blended style reflects hybrid management, consisting of democratic or alternatively autocratic leadership, transformational leadership, and also community-oriented leadership. The research identified a distinctive leadership style in the kibbutz factories, characterized by a strong concern for the community. This management approach integrates sustainability into factory operations while maintaining loyalty to communal values. Key components of this leadership style include innovation, professionalism, dynamism, adaptability to environmental changes, and human sensitivity. Together, these traits equip leaders to be effective both organizationally and within the community, thereby fostering and sustaining long-term sustainability. The research was conducted using a qualitative method, which included multiple case studies—three cases in the current study. The research method involved approximately 75 interviews: about 25 interviews per factory. The interviews included individuals from various ranks, ranging from senior leadership to production workers. In addition, to supplement the information, the study utilized document analysis from within the organization, including internal newsletters, reports, and booklets summarizing fifty years of activity, as well as economic press sources that provided up-to-date information on business transactions that contributed to the success of the kibbutz industries.

Keywords: Kibbutz industry, Kibbutz community, Hybrid leadership, Democratic leadership, Transformational leadership

DOI: 10.20472/EFC.2026.030.004

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