Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

12-1-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Management

First Advisor

Sibin Wu

Second Advisor

Jorge Gonzalez

Third Advisor

Deniz Atik

Abstract

This dissertation examines how Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) human capital configurations influence organizational sustainability performance through a configurational approach. Drawing on Upper Echelons and Human Capital theories, the study conceptualizes CSO human capital as encompassing both general (GHC) and sustainability-specific (SHC) dimensions that interact with job functions and governance mechanisms to shape outcomes. The theoretical framework proposes that SHC primarily influences non-financial sustainability performance (nfSP), while GHC drives financial sustainability performance (fSP). Champion functions moderate the SHC-nfSP relationship, while Ambassador functions moderate the GHC-fSP relationship. Firm sustainability governance further enhances these relationships and creates pathways for SHC to influence financial outcomes. Using a mixed-methods approach analyzing 750+ CSOs, the study employs hierarchical regression and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis to identify multiple pathways to sustainability excellence. The research advances theoretical understanding of specialized executive roles while providing practical guidance for optimizing CSO effectiveness through aligned human capital, job functions, and governance mechanisms. By distinguishing between performance dimensions and identifying specific configurational patterns, the study explains previously mixed findings regarding CSO impact.

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Copyright 2025 Taiwo Abraham. All Rights Reserved. https://proquest.com/docview/3290492168

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