The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of succession planning on the knowledge transfer in higher education with the mediating role of transformational leadership. The research method was descriptive correlational. The statistical population of this study included all administrators (200 people) of Kharazmi University were selected by convenience sampling method. For data collection were used the three Questionnaire of succession planning (Kim, 2006), Bass & Avolio (2004) transformational leadership, and knowledge transfer (Nonaka & Takeuchi, 1995). Data analysis was done by using structural equation modeling in AMOS And Spss-22 software. The results of structural equation modeling showed that the conceptual model of research with experimental data fits well and transformational leadership plays the role of a complete mediator in the relationship between succession planning and knowledge transfer. Accordingly, the variable relationship between succession planning and knowledge transfer through transformational leadership was confirmed in the form of path analysis. Thus, the variable of transformational leadership showed a facilitating role in the relationship between and succession planning and knowledge transfer. Also, the leading variable of succession planning had a direct and positive effect on the knowledge transfer. Based on the results of the research, it can be concluded that university administrators can provide a good platform By establishing a succession planning system in universities and higher education institutions, for institutionalizing knowledge transfer inside and outside the university. In the current competitive environment, university administrators will achieve the lofty goals and missions of the university by cultivating knowledgeable managers, and thus ensure the growth, development and competitive advantage of the university
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