Title: Classification of the key competencies of cluster managers using a Delphi approach: introducing insights from the Czech Republic

Authors: Martin Horák; Lukáš Danko; Markéta Slováková; Jana Matošková

Addresses: Tomas Bata University in Zlín, nám. T.G. Masaryka 5555, 760 01 Zlín, Czechia ' Tomas Bata University in Zlín, nám. T.G. Masaryka 5555, 760 01 Zlín, Czechia ' Tomas Bata University in Zlín, nám. T.G. Masaryka 5555, 760 01 Zlín, Czechia ' Tomas Bata University in Zlín, nám. T.G. Masaryka 5555, 760 01 Zlín, Czechia

Abstract: Recent studies highlight the significance of a competent manager for the long-term development of a cluster organisation. However, the key competencies required for managers have not been adequately studied. The main objective of this study is to identify the key competencies of managers and construct a competency model. The data was gathered using the Delphi method with three rounds involving a group of experts with prior experience in management of cluster organisations. The results identified nine key competencies, to further develop an innovation-intensive ecosystem based on the managers' abilities to manage, motivate, communicate, protect, analyse, and network. The final list of competencies provides practical implications for the selection and evaluation of managers and meet their development needs as well as those of cluster organisations, with insights from the Czech Republic. Additionally, the paper sheds some light on the theoretical overview concerning the management's competencies in a collaborative environment.

Keywords: cluster; cluster organisation; cluster management; competencies; competency models; Delphi method; Czech Republic.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEIM.2021.120542

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, 2021 Vol.25 No.6, pp.460 - 479

Accepted: 23 Aug 2021
Published online: 25 Jan 2022 *

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