Scope of Work – Phase 1 Only
This project investigates the shift in leadership styles across MENA-based organizations, particularly the transition from traditional hierarchical models to more coaching-driven and participative leadership. The study is grounded in organizational change at Majid Al Futtaim, where I currently work.
This brief covers Phase 1 of the project only. The remaining chapters (3–8) will be developed later, after qualitative data is collected using the interview questionnaire produced in this phase.
Deliverables for This Phase
1. Chapter 1 – Introduction and Context (approx. 3,000 words)
This chapter must set a solid foundation for the study and should include:
- Background and Context
Overview of the evolving leadership landscape in MENA, especially within Majid Al Futtaim. - Problem Statement
Clear articulation of the leadership challenge being addressed and why it matters. - Research Aim and Objectives
One overall aim and three to five specific objectives. - Research Questions
One central question supported by two to four sub-questions. - Justification and Relevance
Significance of the study to academic theory, business practice, and personal development. - Structure of the Dissertation
Brief outline of all eight chapters, described in one to two lines each.
2. Chapter 2 – Literature Review (approx. 7,000 words)
This chapter is the most critical and should demonstrate strong academic engagement. It must include:
- Introduction to the Literature Review
Clarify the scope and structure of the chapter. - Thematic Review of Literature
Cover key leadership theories (e.g., transformational, emotional intelligence, coaching)
Address regional cultural frameworks (e.g., Hofstede, Erin Meyer)
Include themes such as generational change, organizational transformation, and emotional intelligence in leadership
Reflect developments relevant to MENA-based organizations - Critical Discussion and Identification of Gaps
Compare and critique different perspectives. Identify contradictions and gaps. - Conclusion and Theoretical Framework
Summarize key insights and present the theoretical lens for the research. - References
A minimum of 40 scholarly sources (from academic journals, books, or eBooks) using Harvard referencing style.
3. Semi-Structured Interview Questionnaire (approx. 500–1,000 words)
- Develop 10–12 open-ended interview questions
- Include follow-up probes where relevant
- Ensure alignment with the literature, research questions, and theoretical framework
- Format must be suitable for use in ethics approval and qualitative interviews
Total Target Word Count for Phase 1: 11,000 words
Support Materials I Will Provide
- Approved project topic and outline
- University guidance on structure and chapters
- Methods and ethics slides
- Literature review workbook
- Harvard referencing guide
- Sample MBA research paper for reference
- Image of chapter structure
Format and Appendices
Submit all content in one Word document.
Include the following in the appendix:
- Final interview questionnaire
- Any frameworks or models referenced
- A section listing all references used in Chapter 2 (in Harvard format)
Writing Style and Requirements
- Academic, UK English, fluent, and human-sounding tone (not AI-generated)
- Clear use of subheadings and structure
- Strict adherence to Harvard referencing
- Use only credible, academic sources
- All content must be original and plagiarism-free (Turnitin will be used)
- Example of a previously written paper to give a sense of how the chapters should be written.
Deadline
July 31st, 2025 by 6:00 PM (Dubai time)
Budget
$150 USD (fixed) for this phase