CRITICAL THINKING ABILITIES AS MEDIATOR BETWEEN BIG FIVE PERSONALITIES AND JOB PERFORMANCE OF ASSISTANT MANAGERS IN SABAH OIL PALM PLANTATION COMPANIES: AN EMPIRICAL PAPER

Abstract

This study examines the mediating role of Critical Thinking Ability (CTA) in the relationship between the Big Five personality traits (Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Neuroticism) and Job Performance of Assistant Managers in Sabah’s Oil Palm Plantation Companies. Utilizing a quantitative approach, data were collected via questionnaires from 150 Assistant Managers across major companies, with analysis conducted through SPSS 26 (descriptive, correlational, and regression techniques). Key findings reveal that the Big Five traits collectively enhance job performance, with Conscientiousness and Openness driving task performance (e.g., planning, prioritization) and Contextual Performance (e.g., initiative, problem-solving). Neuroticism showed a negative association with performance, while Agreeableness had limited influence. CTA variation was significantly influenced by personality traits, particularly Openness and Conscientiousness, which fostered analytical reasoning and adaptability. Crucially, CTA partially mediated the personality-performance link, explaining a notable portion of the variance in job performance—highlighting its role in translating traits into workplace effectiveness, a novel contribution to sector-specific literature. Notably, while 83–84.5% of Assistant Managers demonstrated average Task Performance, only 3–6% scored highly, underscoring the need for targeted development. The study emphasizes generational dynamics (e.g., Gen X, Y, Z distinctions inferred from age-group data), suggesting tailored training to cultivate traits and CTA. Practical implications advocate for integrating personality assessments and critical thinking modules into leadership programs to address skill gaps and enhance sector resilience. This research bridges a theoretical gap, offering frameworks applicable to global agro-industrial sectors for optimizing managerial efficacy through Critical Thinking Ability and Personality trait-based development.