The Influence of Transformational Leadership Style and Work Motivation on Employee Performance at the Regional Inspectorate of Pekanbaru City

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the extent to which transformational leadership style and the level of work motivation affect employee performance within the Regional Inspectorate of Pekanbaru City. The study is motivated by the fact that the rate of follow-up implementation on audit recommendations remains relatively low, indicating challenges in leadership dimensions as well as limited internal drive among employees to carry out tasks optimally. The research employed a quantitative approach with an explanatory design, aiming to test causal relationships among the variables. The respondents consisted of 62 employees of the Regional Inspectorate, determined through a census technique. Data were collected using a questionnaire that had passed validity and reliability tests to ensure accurate measurement of the studied constructs. Data analysis was carried out using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with the assistance of SmartPLS software. The main findings of this study indicate that transformational leadership significantly contributes to the enhancement of work motivation, and both factors, directly and through mediation, have a positive impact on employee performance. Work motivation was found to play an essential mediating role in strengthening the influence of leadership on performance achievement. These results affirm the necessity of a leadership approach that emphasizes empowerment, inspiration, and individualized consideration. Therefore, organizational strategies that stimulate intrinsic work motivation among employees are required. The practical implications of this study suggest that strengthening transformational leadership capacity and integrating psychological dimensions into performance management systems are crucial steps in building a more adaptive and high-performing public sector organization.