The Impact of Transformational Leadership on Employee Performance at Jeddah Islamic Port with the Mediating Role of Job Satisfaction: An Applied Study

Khalid Asiri1, Mohamed A. Ragheb2, Khanssa Lagdami3

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/51116 Received 30/05/2025, Revised 05/07/2025, Acceptance 14/08/2025, Available online and Published 01/01/2026

Abstract

This study explores the connection between transformational leadership (TL) and employee performance (EP), with job satisfaction (JS) acting as a mediating factor, at Jeddah Islamic Port (JIP).  A quantitative approach employing structural equation modeling (SEM) was utilized, with data gathered from 198 employees and subsequently analyzed through AMOS software.  The results indicate that each of the four dimensions of transformational leadership—idealized influence (II), inspirational motivation (IM), intellectual stimulation (IS), and individualized consideration (IC) —has a significant and positive impact on JS and EP.  The relationship between transformational leadership and EP is partially mediated by JS.  The variables associated with transformational leadership account for 26.0% of the variance in JS and 53.9% of the variance in EP.  The investigation offers empirical data that underscores the essential function of transformational leadership in improving organizational performance within the maritime logistics sector.