The rise of digital leadership in the public sector era: A recent systematic review

Abstract

In today’s fast-changing digital environment, public sector institutions are under increasing pressure to deliver services that are efficient, transparent, and adaptive. As a response, digital leadership has become an essential driver of change, helping organizations navigate technological disruption and improve how they operate. Yet, current research offers fragmented insights into what digital leadership means in practice and how it impacts public administration. This study takes a closer look by conducting a systematic literature review using the PRISMA framework, ensuring a thorough and structured approach. A comprehensive search of Scopus and Web of Science databases yielded 24 peer-reviewed articles published between 2022 and 2025. These works were analysed through three key lenses: Digital Leadership and Organizational Performance, Digital Leadership and Employee Empowerment, and Digital Leadership and Digital Transformation. Across these themes, the evidence consistently points to digital leadership playing a positive role in strengthening decision-making, boosting employee engagement with technology, enhancing public service quality, and building responsive, digitally mature institutions. Traits such as adaptability, ethical foresight, collaboration across departments, and reliance on data emerged as vital components of effective leadership in the digital era. At the same time, the effectiveness of digital leadership appears to be shaped by factors like sector-specific challenges, geographic settings, and the existing level of digital infrastructure. Overall, this review positions digital leadership as more than a technical or administrative role because of its role in a strategic necessity for public institutions aiming to innovate, remain resilient, and meet the evolving needs of citizens. The findings provide a clear, consolidated picture of where the field stands and where future exploration is needed.