LEADERSHIP AND WORK ENVIRONMENT STRATEGIES ON PERFORMANCE OF GENERATION Z IN KENYA POWER AND LIGHTING COMPANY IN NAIROBI CITY COUNTY, KENYA

Kenya Power and Lighting being the major distributor of electricity in Kenya is anticipated to make supernormal profits. However, its performance has been on a decline since 2018 and this has led to lack of attractiveness leading to mass resignation of young employees. The dilemma most it faces today is how to retain this recent generation. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of leadership and work environment on performance of Generation Z in Kenya Power and Lighting Company in Nairobi City County Kenya. This study was anchored on the Human Capital Theory and Herzberg Two Factor Theory. The research adopted descriptive research design. The study population involved employees of Kenya Power and Lighting. The number of employees targeted were 200. The study used simple random sampling technique. The study obtained data through primary sources using semi-structured questionnaires. A pilot study was carried out which was done on 5% of the sample and this helped to test the validity and reliability of the research instrument. The data collected was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) which formulated a multiple regression model that illustrated the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The study found that leadership and work environment had a positive significant influence on the performance of generation Z employees at Kenya Power and Lighting. The study concluded that Leaders have a profound impact on their overall work environment and that they create an atmosphere of trust and respect, which in turn fostered creativity and collaboration. Praising employees for good work can help foster a positive work environment for all. A leader needs to be able to identify potential problems early on and deal with them to avoid costly mistakes. Maintaining a level of empathy, respect and understanding between all employees can help foster collaboration and make team members heard, supported and valued at the workplace which improves work environment and hence performance. Key Words : Leadership, work environment and Employee performance CITATION : Oginga, A . Z., & Makhamara, F. (2023). Leadership and work environment strategies on performance of generation Z in Kenya Power and Lighting Company in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The Strategic Journal of Business & Change Management, 10 (4), 77 – 89. http://dx.doi.org/10.61426/sjbcm.v10i4.2736