Non-family Managers and Innovation in Family Firms : A Meta-Analysis

Lyu, Qiuyue and Dou, Junsheng and Fang, Hanqing “Chevy” and De Massis, Alfredo (2025) Non-family Managers and Innovation in Family Firms : A Meta-Analysis. Family Business Review. ISSN 0894-4865

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Abstract

Non-family managers play a crucial role in fostering innovation within family firms, yet their impact remains debated due to inconsistent research findings and a lack of comprehensive synthesis. This study integrates this effect through a meta-analysis of 213 effect sizes from 101 studies. The results demonstrate a positive influence of non-family managers on firm innovation, with a stronger effect on inputs than on outputs. Furthermore, this study identifies key governance and managerial contingencies at the firm level. First-generation control weakens this relationship, while non-family TMTs strengthen it. The implications for theory and practice are discussed, with suggestions for future research.