CRISIS LEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATIONAL RESILIENCE DURING COVID-19: LESSONS FROM THE HEALTHCARE AND RETAIL SECTORS

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges across industries, exposing vulnerabilities in global systems while highlighting the essential role of leadership in navigating crises. This article examines how crisis leadership influenced organizational resilience in the healthcare and retail sectors, two of the most critically impacted domains. Through a comparative qualitative analysis grounded in adaptive leadership and resilience theory, we explore leadership responses, communication strategies, and adaptive measures that enabled organizations to sustain operations. Drawing from real-world case studies, the article identifies cross-sectoral lessons and proposes strategic recommendations for building crisis-preparedness and resilience in future disruptions.