New attributes for the “Digital Leader”? An analysis based on the views of Brazilian executives and researchers

Abstract Purpose: The rise of Revolution 4.0 raises several research questions; in the field of leadership, it could not be different. One of the most prominent issues in this field revolves around the attributes required of leaders in the context of Revolution 4.0. Therefore, this study sought to capture and measure the perception of Brazilian researchers and executives about the main attributes required of leaders in the digital age. Originality/value: The study is relevant as it sheds light on the skills required of leaders in the digital age, identifying important attributes for effective leadership. Design/methodology/approach: At first, an extensive literature mapping was carried out, resulting in a theoretical model of the Digital Leader around four dimensions: i) relational; ii) focus on people; iii) digital; iv) innovation and adaptability. Subsequently, quantitative research was applied to 77 executives and 14 researchers who published the most about leadership in Brazil. Findings: The results reveal a high perception of importance for all attributes identified in the research model. Therefore, for both executives and researchers, the individual able to lead in Revolution 4.0 must have attributes linked to the relational, human, digital, and innovation dimensions. However, when comparing the dimensions, it is verified that the digital dimension appears with a lesser degree of importance. It is curious that in Revolution 4.0, skills more related to technology occupied the least privileged position. This finding raises questions related to the recent discussion around the need for a new leadership style in the context of Revolution 4.0.