The influence of managerial innovation on the adoption of socially responsible practices: A case study of Moroccan companies

Abstract

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become crucial for companies amidst changing societal expectations. The increasing social and environmental concerns have pushed businesses to integrate sustainability into their managerial innovation processes. As companies face this challenge, researchers must focus on exploring the influence of managerial innovation on business performance, competitiveness, and meeting CSR and sustainability norms. Managerial innovation has emerged as a differentiator for companies, enabling them to outperform their peers in an increasingly competitive environment. It is crucial to develop innovative practices that can help companies to improve their long-term competitiveness and performance. However, the literature often neglects the link between managerial innovation and CSR. According to certain research results, managers need to take responsibility for managing human resources and innovators' developments to establish desirable CSR behaviors. Our study evaluated the influence of managerial innovation on CSR practices in 46 Moroccan companies. The researchers have confirmed that managerial innovation is positively correlated with implementing multiple pillars of CSR. Therefore, companies that promote an innovative and responsible culture have a higher chance of implementing CSR practices. It is worth noting that companies must realize the positive influence of managerial innovation on their long-term competitiveness and performance, and it plays a vital role in meeting society's expectations for CSR and sustainability. Accordingly, companies must integrate CSR practices into their overall strategy, considering the potential influence on their business operations and reputation. CSR practices and innovation can be instrumental in increasing business resilience, creating new revenue streams, and attracting more socially responsible consumers. Emphasizing managerial innovation can help companies create a competitive edge over their peers and emerge as sustainability and social responsibility leaders.

Keywords: Managerial innovation, CSR, CSR approach

JEL Classification : M14, O35, Q56.

Paper type: Empirical research