Chain Coordinators’ Leadership Styles and Coordination Effectiveness: Selected Agrifood Chains of UK Importers

The application of suitable leadership styles and consideration of certain dimensions (operational and social outcomes) are pivotal tools for chain coordinators (CEOs, managing directors and head of

departments) to achieve coordination success. The linkages are scrutinized by applying structural equation modeling to the data collected from UK’s selected agri-food supply chains (dairy, meat, apples,

onions and wine). The findings suggest that chain coordinators’ participative leadership style is significantly correlated with the effectiveness of supply chain coordination (operational, social and

financial performance). Moreover, operational (service and product quality) and social (satisfaction with/trust in supply chain partners) outcomes are found to be important determinants of financial

performance. This empirical investigation enhances the understanding of chain coordinators and thus contributes to determine best practices for modern agri-food supply chains.