Influence of Strategy Implementation Drivers On Performance of Five Star Hotels in Maputo Province, Mozambique

Abstract

The factors influencing the implementation of strategy are essential for the attainment of strategic objectives. This research seeks to pinpoint the vital components that enhance performance within the hotel sector. Specifically, it examines the influence of strategy implementation drivers on the performance of five-star hotels located in Maputo Province, Mozambique, with an emphasis on identifying the key factors that contribute to improved hotel performance. The study is anchored in several theoretical frameworks, including strategic leadership theory, the resource-based view (RBV), technological innovation theory, and strategic culture theory, employing a descriptive survey research design. Data collection involved 10 hotels, with participants comprising five Chief Executive Officers, five relationship managers, five operations managers, five IT managers, and five strategic leaders. A total of 50 respondents were chosen through a simple random sampling technique, responding to both closed and open-ended questions. To validate the research, a pre-test was conducted at the Vip Grand Hotel Maputo with 12 participants. The findings were presented using descriptive statistics, frequency charts, and comprehensive explanations, while inferential statistics were assessed through multiple regression and correlation analyses. The results revealed that while other factors such as employee training, organizational culture, and technology adaptation are significant, strategic leadership has a highly significant influence on the performance of five-star hotels in Maputo. A correlation coefficient of 0.089 was identified between strategic leadership and performance, with statistical significance at a p-value of 0.05. The linear regression model indicated that the drivers of strategy implementation (including strategic leadership, organizational culture, employee training, and technology adaptation) accounted for 89.8% of the variance in hotel performance (R² = 0.898). A positive and significant relationship between the drivers of strategy implementation and the performance of five-star hotels in Maputo Province was confirmed through multiple linear regression analysis. The study concluded that effective leadership is essential for achieving customer satisfaction, profitability, market share, operational efficiency, informed decision-making, and resource management. As a result, the study therefore recommends all levels of management, from operations managers to CEOs, to prioritize the continuous enhancement of the guest experience by actively seeking feedback, providing personalized services, and upholding exceptional standards of hospitality. Customer satisfaction should be central to every strategic initiative, as it significantly influences market share, brand reputation, and profitability. It suggests also that hotels should cultivate an atmosphere that encourages creativity and innovation among their employees, empowering them to propose enhancements in processes, services, and products.