Abstract
The role of innovation and creativity in the contemporary tourism industry is significant in sustaining competitive advantage. Of all factors related to employees’ behaviour, leadership has been found to be one of the most influential in supporting and encouraging subordinates’ creativity and innovation. The key purpose of this study is to examine the influence of perceived innovation-enhancing leadership behaviours on employees’ creativity and innovation. A quantitative survey of 292 hotels and resorts in Australia was conducted. The empirical findings indicate that the innovation-enhancing leadership behaviours relate positively and significantly to employees’ creativity and innovation. The findings of this study will enable industry practitioners to develop innovative and sustainable organisational strategies in the competitive tourism industry, as well as useful directions for leadership coaching programs.
