Strategic stakeholder management and resource mobilization in the University of Nairobi

Abstract

To study aimed at establishing the relationship between strategic stakeholders‟ management and resource mobilization the University of Nairobi. Strategic stakeholder management is an instrument approach towards stakeholder theory which maximizes shareholder value over an uncertain time frame. Institutions managers ought to pay attention to key stakeholder relationships. Institutions have a stake in the behavior of their stakeholders. Prudent management of institutions‟ operating environments must include relationships with their stakeholders as part of an environment that must be managed in order to assure revenues, profits and ultimately returns to shareholders. The study was carried out through a case study design. Case study research design provides very focused and valuable insights to phenomena that may otherwise be vaguely known or understood. The study made use of both primary and secondary data. The target population for this study were senior university stakeholders and departmental heads. The researcher used purposive sampling to select 10 informants drawn from the top level management because they are mainly the ones who deal with strategy implementation. The informants were the vice‐chancellor, three deputy vice‐chancellors (for Administration and Finance, for Academic Affairs, and for Student Affairs) and an Academic Registrar, as well as the principals of constituent colleges, deans of faculties and directors of centres. Both the primary and secondary data was qualitative in nature. Given this fact, content analysis was used to analyze the data. The study established core milestones realized by the stakeholders mobilized towards resource mobilization strategic plan. This was attained through financial support from strong market shares, happy external stakeholders, among so many other inputs. The study found that senior managers and departmental heads were involved in strategic management process.The study also found out that factors leading to strategic stakeholders management practices include clear aims and planning, a conducive climate, giving implementation priority, having abundant resources, an appropriate structure and implementing flexibly, organizational structure, control mechanisms, strategic consensus, leadership and positive attitude towards strategy implementation success. The study also concludes that the management has taken initiatives in creating and sustaining a climate within the University of Nairobi that motivates stakeholders in their implementation that includes; encouraging teamwork, maintaining a powerful culture that results in stakeholders aligning their individual goals and behaviors with those of the firm.