IOP4862
ASSIGNMENT 6 (SEMESTER 0)
DUE DATE: 25 October 2024
Written Assignment Submission Guidelines:
Please ensure that your assignment is submitted electronically through the myUnisa platform no
later than September 2024. Kindly note that fax or email submissions will not be accepted.
NB: Assignment submitted to the lecturer(s) through email will not be considered.
QUESTION 1
1.1 Identify which modern leadership theory was applied by Martin Sithole and explain in your
own words what this leadership theory entails. (5)
ANSWER:
The modern leadership theory that best fits Martin Sithole’s approach is Transactional Leadership.
This leadership style focuses on a clear structure where followers understand their responsibilities
and are rewarded or disciplined based on their performance. Leaders using this approach emphasize
short-term tasks, structure, and rewards for achieving objectives. It is often seen as results-oriented,
where the leader sets the goals, and followers are expected to comply without much input.
In the case of Martin, he dictated his vision for the merger without consulting his subordinates,
indicating a focus on task completion over relationship building, which is a characteristic of
transactional leadership. He maintained control and set clear expectations, focusing on loyalty and
performance targets rather than collaboration.
1.2 Discuss ethical and unethical characteristics of the identified leadership theory and integrate
examples from the case study in your discussion. (10)
ASSIGNMENT 6 (SEMESTER 0)
DUE DATE: 25 October 2024
Written Assignment Submission Guidelines:
Please ensure that your assignment is submitted electronically through the myUnisa platform no
later than September 2024. Kindly note that fax or email submissions will not be accepted.
NB: Assignment submitted to the lecturer(s) through email will not be considered.
QUESTION 1
1.1 Identify which modern leadership theory was applied by Martin Sithole and explain in your
own words what this leadership theory entails. (5)
ANSWER:
The modern leadership theory that best fits Martin Sithole’s approach is Transactional Leadership.
This leadership style focuses on a clear structure where followers understand their responsibilities
and are rewarded or disciplined based on their performance. Leaders using this approach emphasize
short-term tasks, structure, and rewards for achieving objectives. It is often seen as results-oriented,
where the leader sets the goals, and followers are expected to comply without much input.
In the case of Martin, he dictated his vision for the merger without consulting his subordinates,
indicating a focus on task completion over relationship building, which is a characteristic of
transactional leadership. He maintained control and set clear expectations, focusing on loyalty and
performance targets rather than collaboration.
1.2 Discuss ethical and unethical characteristics of the identified leadership theory and integrate
examples from the case study in your discussion. (10)
