Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

11-2025

Abstract

Structure, Agency, and Culture: Examining the Influence of Organizational Culture in Succession Planning in Higher Education Institutions Conference: The Asian Conference on Education (ACE2025) Title: Structure, Agency, and Culture: Examining the Influence of Organizational Culture in Succession Planning in Higher Education Institutions Submission Number: 96492 Date Submitted: May 22, 2025 Stream: Educational Policy, Leadership, Management & Administration Presentation Type: Oral Presentation Current Status: Accepted Authors: Ferdinand Rellorosa, Ateneo De Manila University, Philippines Abstract: Succession planning (SP) is vital for leadership continuity and institutional sustainability (Ahmad et al., 2020; Rothwell, 2005). While largely studied in corporate settings, its application in higher education institutions (HEIs) remains underexplored, particularly in state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the Philippines. This research examines how organizational culture influences SP in SUCs, identifying structural and cultural factors that affect leadership transitions. Using qualitative methods, specifically thematic analysis, this study investigates the experiences and perspectives of SUC leaders at the middle management, focusing on leadership selection processes, bureaucratic constraints, and political dynamics that shape SP strategies. Findings reveal that formal succession policies are often absent, leaving leadership transitions vulnerable to inconsistencies and external political influences. Additionally, the study highlights how SUC leaders navigate institutional challenges, acknowledging gaps in existing policies while advocating for more structured and merit-based succession strategies. The role of organizational culture—shaped by hierarchy, internal politics, and bureaucratic regulations—is found to significantly impact SP outcomes. By contextualizing SP within Philippine SUCs, this study contributes to leadership development discourse in HEIs and informs policy recommendations aimed at fostering sustainable governance practices. The research underscores the necessity of aligning SP with institutional culture to ensure long-term leadership stability, advocating for frameworks that balance organizational values with strategic succession mechanisms.

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