To what extent do CEO characteristics explain CSR practices in public sector organisations? Evidence from Nigeria

This study examines how demography- and position-based preferences and dispositions of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) drive corporate social responsibility (CSR). Empirically, we test our assertions on a unique hand-build dataset belonging to public sector organisations (PSOs) operating in Nigeria. Consistent with our theorising, the analysis shows that PSOs led by CEOs with strong demography-based preferences and dispositions expedite CSR whereas CEOs with strong structural positions impair CSR. The central tenets of our findings remain unchanged after accounting for board attributes and PSO-specific characteristics, which support the notion that CEOs with strong demographic traits are socially responsible leaders. This paper extends the literature on CEO attributes and shall guide governing boards, policymakers, and authorities responsible for executive appointments within the civil services as to which CEOs matter to long-term strategic priorities such as CSR in the public sector.