Research and insights to navigate complexity

White papers

A framework for transmission infrastructure expansion in South Africa: addressing investment, regulatory,  and execution constraints

South Africa’s Just Energy Transition is constrained by a R400 billion transmission infrastructure funding gap that the public sector cannot close alone, making private-sector investment urgent. This paper offers recommendations to strengthen the energy sector’s competitiveness through innovation and a supportive investment environment. It proposes a sequenced three-pillar framework: targeted government support, robust regulatory design, and innovative financing models. Specialised financing structures are recommended to make transmission projects bankable, with the government central to attracting private capital and driving sustainable growth.

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White papers

Leadership style: not a magic wand, but significant in enhancing employee performance

The positive outcomes associated with certain leadership approaches are discussed, followed by a reflection on the limitations of other approaches in terms of employee morale and performance. Recommendations are made to improve leaders’ conduct in the workplace and to foster a brighter future for employees and the sector as a whole. Employees’ awareness of the significance of effective leadership is encouraging. The paper advocates leadership training and continuous employee upskilling to ensure a pipeline of competent, future leaders dedicated to enhancing the public sector’s reputation.

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White papers

Leadership Style: Not a magic wand, but significant in leading a multigenerational workforce

 The research examines the diverse communication preferences across four generational cohorts. To bridge the gap within the workforce, a hybrid leadership approach and greater flexibility in communication styles are proposed. Reassessing current practices and fostering an inclusive work culture to reduce misunderstandings and conflicts are essential moving forward. A key component of this transformation is leaders’ emotional intelligence, which requires an attitude of accepting change as a constant and adapting their interactions with the workforce accordingly 

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White papers

Leadership Style: Succession planning's incremental importance for ensuring organisations' success

 The applicability of the SC-VRIO model is discussed. The study concluded that management considered the model’s principles beneficial for enhancing succession planning and management implementation, albeit with considerations for organisational buy-in and access to practical tools and training to ensure consistency. Data for the qualitative single-case study was collected via semi-structured virtual interviews conducted with 15 senior managers, including human resource managers, who were involved in the organisation’s succession planning and management activities.

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White papers

Critical factors influencing the success of IT projects within the financial industry

Guided by established literature, a survey was conducted among 101 professionals from various financial organisations to elicit their views across different types of organisations within the financial industry, such as insurance, commercial banking, and governance companies. Data were collected from professionals specifically involved in IT projects through an online survey. Using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, Pearson correlation analyses identified factors that significantly enhance the success of IT projects.

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White papers

The marketing audit: it’s a strategic tool, and it’s time to use it

By treating marketing with the same rigour as applied, for example,  to finance, leadership can ensure greater accountability, stronger alignment with organisational goals, and more resilient market performance. 

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Booklets

Henley Thought Leadership Booklet  

Our ambition as a business school is to build a better Africa. In line with this focus, our research output must seek to inject meaning into every project and thought leadership piece we undertake. We believe in producing research that addresses the most pressing issues facing African business and society. We believe in supporting innovative thinking that has the potential to transform and inspire.

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White papers

Women-led entrepreneurial projects in South Africa: drivers of change amid all the odds

Women-led small businesses warrant increased recognition and support. Despite their significant contribution to society and the economy, they face considerable funding difficulties, a lack of essential business skills, and discrimination in a male-dominated marketplace.

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White papers

Listed companies’ disclosure and response to environmental initiatives: does it boost their financial performance?

There is no significant link found between climate disclosures and shareholder wealth enhancement, suggesting that while climate strategies are crucial for sustainability, their direct effects on shareholder wealth in the JSE/Financial Times Stock Exchange 40 context are limited.

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White papers

Post-acquisition IT integration of mergers and acquisitions: a need for speed perspective

Efficient IT integration after acquiring a new M&A organisation is crucial for minimising disruptions and ensuring business continuity, allowing for quick realisation of intended synergies.

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White papers

Nuanced complexities surrounding the adoption of e-commerce in the agri-input value chain

Stalled or failed mergers and acquisitions have major implications for finances, trust in the organisation, and employee morale. To speed up the process, two crucial factors emerge: communication and cross-functional collaboration, which can help detect and resolve challenges in a timely manner.

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Research reports

Collaboration in action: Exploring strategic partnerships between businesses and non-profit organisations. Summary Report 2026

NPOs are often viewed narrowly as charitable entities that do good work for society but don’t contribute significantly to the economy. This study, commissioned by the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s NPO Portfolio in consultation, widens this lens, demonstrating the significant economic impact that NPOs in the Western Cape are having on key economic indicators, including employment, revenue generation, and skills development.

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Research reports

The perceived impact of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment on business performance in South Africa

Is Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) hampering or helping South African organisations? This research report examines managers’ perceptions of the impact of B-BBEE on business performance in South Africa, based on a mixed-methods study with 527 survey respondents and 10 in-depth interviews conducted in late 2025.

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Research reports

From profit to purpose: how FMCG retail stores are positioned to serve local communities

Broader expectations are being placed on organisations to help address social challenges and to contribute towards community upliftment and environmental stewardship. In this context, this study explores how fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) retail stores in South Africa, as the country’s second-largest employer, are meeting these expectations.

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Case Studies

Churning sweet childhood memories into a successful business venture: the case of Roska Artisan Ice Cream

Nearly 80% of South African small businesses fail, but Roska Artisan Ice Cream proved passion can beat the odds. What began as a lockdown nostalgia project in a dining room is now an award-winning brand. This case study outlines the key lessons behind their sweet success.

Case Studies

Surgical leadership: disrupting the status quo

When Dr Ridwan Mia used pioneering stem-cell technology to save burn victim Pippie Kruger, he faced intense industry resistance. This case study asks the difficult questions in examining how surgical leadership requires balancing cutting-edge medical innovation with human connection, empathy, and strong team rapport.

Case Studies

Sumting Fresh: street food entrepreneur to restaurateur?

Andrew Leeuw built Sumting Fresh into an award-winning street food giant, only to see it slump amidst operational strain and burnout. This penetrating case study explores Leeuw’s rollercoaster journey, exposing the harsh realities of South African entrepreneurship and the critical need for emotional resilience and structured support.

Magazines

Issue 3: 2026

It has never been more essential for responsible researchers and students of both business and human behaviour to demonstrate a commitment to knowledge, truth, and the sharing of ideas. Our third edition reflects this urgency.

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Magazines

Issue 2: 2025

Immerse yourself in fresh perspectives and thought leadership that puts Africa's challenges at the heart of global discourse. Research should spark debate and drive real-world solutions, and our second research magazine delivers!

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Magazines

Issue 1: 2024

As an international business school with a heart in Africa, Henley is uniquely positioned to bring fresh, independent voices into the classroom and provide critical industry insights. Stop scrolling, start understanding.

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