Flexible work arrangements, supervisor support, and transformational leadership style in a shipping company: effects on work-life balance

This study examines the impact of flexible work arrangements, supervisor support, and transformational leadership style on work-life balance (WLB) among employees in the shipping industry. Given the high job demands in this sector, achieving WLB remains a significant challenge. The purpose of this study is to investigate how these organizational factors influence employees’ ability to balance work and personal responsibilities. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a structured survey to collect data from 190 employees in a Malaysian shipping firm. The findings reveal that flexible work arrangements and supervisor support significantly enhance work-life balance, whereas transformational leadership requires a more employee-focused approach to effectively support WLB. The study highlights the importance of implementing flexible policies and fostering supervisor involvement to improve employee well-being and job satisfaction. Additionally, organizations that emphasize work-life balance experience lower turnover rates and higher productivity. Practical and theoretical implications are discussed, providing recommendations for HR practices and leadership strategies in shipping organizations. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on workplace flexibility and employee well-being, particularly in demanding industries.