The Role of Strategic Leadership, Knowledge Management, and Human Resource Management in Enhancing the Future Competitiveness of Saudi Business Organizations in Future Economies, Using Social Responsibility as a Moderating Variable.
Abstract
In an era defined by globalization, technological advancement, and sustainability imperatives, enhancing future competitiveness orientation (FCO) is critical for business survival and growth. This study investigates the role of Strategic Leadership (SL), Knowledge Management (KM), and Human Resource Management (HRM) in fostering the FCO of Saudi business organizations, with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) examined both as a direct contributor and as a moderating variable. Grounded in the Resource-Based View (RBV), Knowledge-Based View (KBV), and Stakeholder Theory, the study utilizes a quantitative research design, collecting data from 329 valid responses using a structured questionnaire and analysing the results via Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeming (PLS-SEM).Findings reveal that SL, KM, HRM, and CSR each positively and significantly influence FCO, confirming their strategic importance in achieving sustained competitive advantage. However, CSR failed to moderate the relationships between SL, KM, and HRM with FCO, suggesting that its strategic integration within Saudi firms remains underdeveloped. The rejection of these moderation hypotheses challenges assumptions of automatic synergy between CSR and other strategic functions, pointing instead to the need for deliberate CSR alignment with core business strategies.The study offers theoretical contributions by extending the RBV and KBV frameworks to include CSR as a direct strategic resource in the Saudi context. Practically, it provides actionable insights for executives and policymakers on prioritizing leadership development, knowledge systems, and human capital as key levers of competitiveness. It also calls for gradual integration of CSR into strategic domains rather than treating it as a universal moderator. On a societal level, the research supports CSR as a driver of reputation, stakeholder trust, and sustainable growth, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 and UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 8, 9, 12).