Ursakiі Yuliіa, PhD (Economics), Associate Professor of the Department of Management, Marketing and Logistics, Chernivtsi Institute of Trade and Economics of SUTE, Chernivtsi, Ukraine

ORCID: 0000-0002-7793-7761
e-mail: julja-ursakijj@ukr.net

Situational Leadership in Martial Law: Adaptive Approaches to Management

Abstract. Introduction. The study of situational leadership under martial law is driven by profound transformations in the socio-economic and managerial environment caused by wartime challenges. The full-scale war in Ukraine has intensified uncertainty, risks, and the need to revise traditional management approaches, emphasizing adaptive leadership models capable of functioning effectively in crisis conditions.

Purpose. The purpose of the article is to analyze the application and effectiveness of situational leadership in the business environment during martial law, as well as to identify adaptive management approaches that ensure organizational resilience and continuity.

Results. The theoretical foundations of situational leadership, particularly the Hersey–Blanchard model, are examined to highlight the relationship between leadership styles and employee development levels. The study establishes that effective leadership hinges on a manager’s ability to adjust their leadership style according to their employees’ competence, motivation, and psychological state. The study analyzes the practical application of situational leadership in Ukrainian companies during wartime and demonstrates the use of directive, coaching, supportive, and delegating styles. The findings confirm that adaptive leadership improves decision-making speed, employee motivation, organizational flexibility, and crisis response capacity.

Conclusions. Situational leadership performs a system-forming role in wartime management, ensuring a balance between control and flexibility, stability and innovation. Its implementation contributes to organizational resilience, continuity of operations, and long-term development. Further research should focus on quantitative assessment of leadership effectiveness and sector-specific applications in crisis conditions.

Keywords: management; leadership; situational leadership; Hersey-Blanchard model; management styles.

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