Factors Affecting the Competencies of Strategy-Oriented Holding Companies in the Petrochemical Industry
Keywords:
competency, petrochemical industry, strategy - based holdingAbstract
This study aims to identify and explain the factors influencing the competencies of strategy-oriented holding companies in Iran’s petrochemical industry. This applied study adopted a qualitative exploratory design using thematic analysis. Data were collected through document analysis and semi-structured interviews with 17 academic experts and senior managers and consultants in the petrochemical industry, selected via purposive and snowball sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data analysis was conducted using MAXQDA software, and trustworthiness was ensured through credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability criteria. The findings revealed that the competencies of strategy-oriented holdings are shaped by six overarching themes: macro-environmental factors, strategic governance, business value-creating factors, supporting factors, cultural and relational factors, and organizational strategic factors. These themes were further articulated through 27 organizing themes and 113 basic themes, reflecting the complex and multi-level nature of holding company competencies. The study concludes that the competencies of strategy-oriented holding companies emerge from the dynamic interaction of environmental, strategic, structural, managerial, and cultural factors, providing a conceptual foundation for developing practical frameworks to enhance sustainable competitiveness in the petrochemical industry.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Vahid Khashei-Varnamkhasti, Hamed Dehghanan, Shahram khalilnejad (Author); Parham Shahbazi
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