Abstract:
This study evaluates how the leadership qualities of project managers (PMs) influence project success within Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) at the Addis Ababa headquarters, focusing on identifying key leadership characteristics. Using a mixed-method approach, both quantitative (through a self-administered questionnaire survey) and qualitative data (via interviews) were collected from 251 respondents, including project managers, senior engineers, and project directors. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to analyze the relationship between PMs' leadership attributes and project success. The findings revealed that personal traits, such as far-sightedness and focus on results, along with emotional intelligence, are significant predictors of project success. Transformational leadership behaviors like fostering innovation and transactional leadership practices such as goal-setting and structured feedback were also identified as important factors. Technical skills, particularly in people and quality management, were crucial, while soft skills like teamwork and problem-solving had less direct influence. Ethical values, including fairness and integrity, played an essential role in ensuring successful project outcomes. The study concludes that EEP should prioritize a holistic approach to project management, integrating technical expertise, emotional intelligence, leadership styles, and ethical conduct. Recommendations include focusing on training programs to enhance emotional intelligence, leadership skills, and ethical decision-making, alongside developing technical and personal traits.
