Supervisor Support, Job Satisfaction, And Innovative Behavior: A Qualitative Study In The Pharmaceutical Industry

Abstract

Purpose – This study explores the role of supervisor support in shaping the job satisfaction and innovative behavior of research and development (R&D) personnel in China’s pharmaceutical industry.

Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with R&D personnel (N=22) from eight leading pharmaceutical companies in Sichuan, China. Participants at different career stages (junior, mid-level, and senior) were selected to ensure data diversity. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify key themes related to supervisor support, job satisfaction, and innovation.

Findings – The research results indicate that supervisor support enhances the job satisfaction of R&D personnel through Providing Help & Support, Empowerment & Autonomy, Communication & Feedback, Inspiring Creativity, and Employee Development, thereby improving their innovative behavior.

Practical implications – The findings suggest that pharmaceutical companies should strengthen supervisor support mechanisms by providing leadership training, encouraging constructive feedback, and fostering a culture of innovation. Enhancing supervisor support can increase job satisfaction and ultimately improve R&D personnel’s innovative performance.

Originality/value – This study contributes to the literature by offering qualitative insights into the nuanced relationship between supervisor support, job satisfaction, and innovative behavior in R&D contexts. It provides a deeper understanding of how organizational leadership can effectively foster innovation in knowledge-intensive industries.