The link between transformational leadership and the EFQM model elements

PurposeThis work examines the relationship between transformational leadership and enablers and results of the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) model 2013 and the relationship between the EFQM model elements (enablers and results).Design/methodology/approachThe work employs partial least squares (PLS) and empirical data from 102 hotels.FindingsTransformational leadership is key to facilitate the enablers of the EFQM model (strategy, people, partnership and processes) and improve customer, employee and social results and organizational performance.Originality/valueThe present work expands previous studies that focus on analyzing the link between enablers and results of EFQM by showing that transformational leadership is an appropriate leadership style to foster the EFQM model elements. It empirically supports the view that transformational leadership is a facilitator that can foster the EFQM enablers and improve results in hotels. Thus, it also sheds light on the controversial link between transformational leadership and various performance measures (customer, employee and social results and organizational performance).