Abstract—Japanese companies have proven their technological supremacy especially during the Japanese miracle period until the 1980s. Their success in producing innovative products/services is partly attributed to the management practice of Japanese firms and efficient production techniques. While extant literature posits that creativity and innovation can be supported or suppressed by leadership, little attention has been given so far to investigate the effect of leadership in promoting creativity and innovation (C&I) in Japanese organizations. At present, the current understanding on leadership and C&I is mainly based on Western (pre-dominantly American) studies. However, the distinct characteristics of Japanese management may create different notions and expectations on how leadership affects C&I in Japanese organizations. This paper conceptualizes the unique, Japanese way of leading creativity and innovation by linking it with the Japanese management practices and culture.

Index Terms—leadership, creativity, innovation, Japanese management, transformational leadership

Cite: Shazlinda Md Yusof and Rozhan Othman, "Leadership for Creativity and Innovation: Is Japan Unique," Journal of Advanced Management Science, Vol. 4, No. 2, pp. 176-180, March 2016. doi: 10.12720/joams.4.2.176-180