TRAIT LEADERSHIP AND ROLES OF SUBDISTRICT HEADMEN AND VILLAGE LEADERS AFFECTING THEIR WORK PERFORMANCE EFFECTIVENESS IN CHONBURI PROVINCE

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to: 1) examine the level of work performance effectiveness of village headmen and sub-district chiefs in Chonburi Province; 2) analyse the trait-based leadership and roles of village headmen and sub-district chiefs that influence their work performance effectiveness; and 3) propose strategies for enhancing the work performance effectiveness of village headmen and sub-district chiefs in Chonburi Province. This mixed-methods research targeted a population comprising residents aged 18 and above in Chonburi Province, totaling 1,509,125 individuals. The sample size was calculated using Yamane’s formula, resulting in 400 respondents. For the qualitative component, interviews were conducted with three local government leaders and seventeen residents, yielding a total of twenty participants. Research instruments included questionnaires and interview guides. Qualitative data were analysed through content analysis, while quantitative data were analysed using frequency distribution, percentages, means, standard deviations, and multiple regression analysis.

          The study found that: 1) overall work performance effectiveness of village headmen and sub-district chiefs in Chonburi Province was at the highest level, with the most prominent aspect being public welfare activities, followed by the announcement of official notices, criminal case management, administrative authority and maintenance of public order, other statutory duties, and reporting to governmental agencies and providing services; 2) factors influencing work performance effectiveness included coordination, job-related traits, intelligence, physical characteristics, career development, and governance, with these six factors collectively predicting 70.90% of performance effectiveness; and 3) strategies for enhancement should focus on strengthening the role of liaison between the state and citizens, improving intelligence and legal literacy, promoting accessible leadership, and enhancing reporting and service systems to be faster and fairer, supported by technology.