Identifying Factors Affecting Competency Improvement of Managers

In order to develop a competency development model for the staff managers of the National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC), this research was performed using exploratory and combined methods. In the qualitative analysis phase of the study, 12 professionals were selected. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and in a two-step analysis the qualitative data were identified. Following that, a focal group was formed in order to adjust these findings in the framework of a conceptual model. To gather quantitative data, a questionnaire was performed on a sample group of 160 managers of NIGC, selected based on random sampling method. The validity of the questionnaire was 74% and the Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 89% verified its reliability. Quantitative data analysis indicates that management competency status in NIGC is significantly above average. Also, the cause-and-effect analysis indicates that the suggested seven major factors of management competency are complete and comprehensive enough to explain and project the competency levels of NIGC managers. Therefore, it is suggested that continuous assessment of managers’ performance together with training and development programs for them will bring about productivity growth and better competitive advantage for the company.