Intellectual capital and supply chain performance the roles of resilience and top management support in the pharmaceutical industry of Ghana

Abstract

This study examines the influence of intellectual capital on supply chain performance in Ghana’s pharmaceutical industry, with a focus on the mediating role of supply chain resilience and the moderating role of top management support. Grounded in the Knowledge-Based View, Dynamic Capability Theory, and Upper Echelon Theory, the research explains how knowledge resources, adaptive capabilities, and managerial commitment interact to improve performance. A quantitative approach, explanatory design guided by post-positivist philosophy was employed, with data collected through structured questionnaires from 275 pharmaceutical firms registered with the Food and Drugs Authority. A total of 215 valid responses were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling in SmartPLS. The results indicate that intellectual capital has a significant impact on both supply chain resilience and performance. Supply chain resilience also positively affects performance and mediates the relationship between intellectual capital and performance, suggesting that resilience converts knowledge resources into operational benefits. Additionally, the study reveals that top management support amplifies the impact of resilience on performance, underscoring the strategic role of leadership in developing robust supply chains. The study contributes to theory by integrating knowledge-based, dynamic, and behavioural perspectives and offers practical insights for pharmaceutical firms to develop intellectual capital, enhance resilience, and foster strong managerial support to sustain competitiveness in volatile environments.