Does a business education make for better innovative managers? An empirical examination of CEOs’ business education, CEO duality and R&D investment intensity

Abstract

This study aims to explore how chief executive officers (CEOs) business education influences their company's investment in Research and Development (R&D) taking into account the moderating impact of CEO duality. Risks related to investment in research and development might have an impact on CEOs who are responsible for improving management effectiveness and company value. Insufficient education among executives can hinder effective oversight. Findings from analyzing data from 1632 firm-year observations from 2015 to 2020 of companies listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges reveal that CEOs with dual roles tend to prioritize R&D investments and innovation. Additionally, CEOs without a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or executive MBA education (EMBA) exhibit a greater willingness to take risks leading to more innovation and spending on R&D. This research emphasizes the need to consider CEOs' demographics, board structures and governance mechanisms to promote innovation in companies.