Managers’ perspectives into skills required for young professionals in Transnet property to assume leadership roles.

Abstract

The evolving landscape of public sector entities in South Africa necessitates a strong pipeline of capable young leaders to drive strategic transformation and operational efficiency. Transnet Property, an operating division of Transnet SOC Ltd, plays a crucial role in managing a vast and diverse property portfolio with a mandate to optimise the returns from the Transnet property portfolio. As Transnet Property navigates a complex and evolving business environment, the development of future leadership from within its pool of young professionals is critical to ensuring long-term organisational sustainability. This study explores the perspectives of managers at Transnet Property regarding the essential skills young professionals need to assume leadership roles within the organisation. A qualitative research approach was employed, and participants were purposefully selected due to their in-depth knowledge and experience that they possess in the property industry and in leadership roles. Semi structured interviews were conducted with nine Regional Managers in the leasing, operations and facilities management department within Transnet Property. Thematic analysis and NVivo software were utilised to identify key themes and insights across participant responses. Findings revealed six key skills that are required by young professionals at Transnet Property to assume leadership roles. These are: emotional intelligence and awareness, visionary and strategic thinking, transformative and adaptability, people and relationship management, ethics and values, and communication and collaboration. Furthermore, the research identified several challenges faced by young professionals at Transnet Property in their pursuit of leadership roles. These are: progress and mobility, developmental barriers, financial and resource constraints, organisational dynamics, and red tapes and resistance. Managers identified several support mechanisms to develop young professionals within Transnet Property for leadership roles these include: training and learning, formalised mentorship, capacity and resources, increased management exposure, and organisational culture change. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on leadership development and provides actionable recommendations for Transnet Property to enhance its leadership pipeline. It underscores the importance of targeted skills development initiatives that respond to managerial expectations and organisational objectives to foster the growth of competent future leaders.