the most basic needs of leading organizations in the current century. The dynamism and alignment of organizations with the dramatic changes in the surrounding environment depend on having efficient and competent managers, especially in research fields.The efforts of military organizations to, given the mission-oriented nature of these organizations, require a local model. Accordingly, the present study was conducted with the aim of designing a competency model for research managers in the Army of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Methodology:This research, using a mixed exploratory approach and using qualitative content analysis and structural modeling, has identified and measured the competencies required by these managers. The statistical population consisted of 325 managers of research centers of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army. Also, a stratified random sampling method was used for sampling.
Findings:The findings showed that the competency model of research center managers includes six main dimensions, including ethical, communication, and managerial competency. Structural equation analysis showed that value competency has the greatest impact on the overall competency of managers.
Originality:The results of this study can be used in designing training and human resource development programs in military organizations, especially research centers. However, limitations such as the generalizability of the results to other organizations and the dynamics of the research environment must be considered