THE ROLE OF LEADERSHIP AND WORK DISCIPLINE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF ADMINISTRATORS THROUGH MOTIVATION AS AN INTERVENING VARIABLE AT SUTA NUSANTARA

Abstract

This study explores the role of leadership and work discipline on the performance of administrators (pengurus) at Suta Nusantara, with motivation examined as a variable that bridges these relationships. A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed to gain an in-depth understanding of how leadership and discipline are experienced and translated into motivation and performance in practice. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 20 informants, consisting of organizational leaders, division heads, and active administrators, selected through purposive sampling based on their tenure, role, and direct involvement in organizational activities. Interviews were complemented by non-participant observation and documentation review, and data were analyzed using the interactive model of Denzin and Guba, comprising data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing/verification, with credibility established through source and method triangulation and member checking. The findings reveal that participative and communicative leadership styles strengthen administrators' sense of ownership and motivation, that consistently enforced work discipline builds a sense of responsibility that sustains performance, and that motivation – both intrinsic (sense of purpose, belonging) and extrinsic (recognition, appreciation) – functions as a critical psychological mechanism that channels the influence of leadership and discipline into concrete performance outcomes. The study offers a contextual, in-depth understanding of human resource dynamics in a volunteer-based organization and provides practical recommendations for strengthening leadership practices and motivational strategies at Suta Nusantara.