Identifying managerial tensions in strategy execution: Creation of an identification tool

Details

Supervisors

Decaux, Loïc

Faculty

Louvain School of Management

Degree label

Master [120] en sciences de gestion, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

Organisations are evolving in a complex and rapidly evolving business environment, with implications for executives on their daily activities. The purpose of the study is to support organisations in their strategy execution process, while paradoxical tensions impact their daily operations. The study aims at identifying the top paradoxical tensions and provide companies with a tool to identify and overcome them. A qualitative approach is adopted. Data gathered through academic literature is reviewed through interviews to validate or refute observations and provide depth to the literature on paradoxical tensions. We conclude by presenting the level of impact of paradoxical tensions on companies (departments, levels, positions), their perceptions throughout the organisation, and their frequency as well as importance for leaders. Besides, we propose an easy-to-use identification tool as a practical solution. Further, we conclude that culture and ambidexterity are central to face paradoxical tensions in an uncertain environment. There is still further research to be carried out on the grey areas on overlapping paradoxical tensions, and the way the affect organisations. In addition, there is research to be made on the continuous update of a paradoxical tensions list that evolves with the corporate environment.