Linking Cultural Intelligence to Ambidextrous Innovation: A Sequential Mediation and Moderated Mechanism among Expatriates in Multinational Companies

Abstract

This study examines how cultural intelligence (CQ) promotes ambidextrous innovation (AIN) through a sequential mechanism involving cultural adaptation (CA), perceived insider status (PIS), and intrapreneurial behaviour (IBR). It also explores the moderating effects of perceived organizational support (POS) and antifragility (AF). Data were collected from 375 expatriate employees working in multinational companies in Pakistan and analysed using PROCESS Macro in SPSS. Results confirmed that CQ positively influences CA and CA influences PIS, which sequentially enhance IBR and ultimately lead to higher AIN. The mediating role of CA, PIS, and IBR was also significant in linking CQ to AIN. Furthermore, POS strengthened the effects of CQ on CA and PIS on IBR, while AF enhanced the IBR–AIN link. These findings provide theoretical and practical insights on how cross-cultural competence, workplace inclusion, and individual resilience can together foster innovation in global organizations.