How Does Corporate Intelligence Level Affect Corporate Sustainability? Evidence from China

Purpose - Facing the backdrop of the digital economy and industrial transformation, China is interested in smart manufacturing to promote transformation, economic growth, and development. Executive characteristics when employing smart technology play an important role. This study aims to explore the relationship between various qualities and the sustainable development of enterprises. Design/Methodology/Approach - This study investigates the impact of corporate intelligence level on corporate sustainability in the digital economy era using a fixed-effects model with Chinese A-share listed companies from 2011 to 2020. It also explores the moderating roles of executive technical backgrounds, overseas backgrounds, and age on the impact of corporate intelligence level on corporate sustainability. Findings - The findings show that corporate intelligence level can contribute to sustainable development. Executive technical backgrounds, overseas backgrounds, and age have positive moderating effects on corporate intelligence level, which can contribute to sustainable development. Research Implications - This study indicates that enterprises will promote sustainable development if they place value on the qualities our findings have highlighted. Our study thus enriches the relevant research on smart manufacturing and sustainable development.