Purpose

This study seeks to examine the mediating role of knowledge sharing (KNS) in the nexus between leadership behaviours and organizational performance (OP).

Design/methodology/approach

Using the survey research design, data were obtained from 335 employees in the Ghanaian financial service sector. Responses were analysed using IBM SPSS (v.23.0), Smart PLS 3.0 and Haye’s (2017) PROCESS macro.

Findings

KNS mediated the relationship between leadership behaviours and OP. In addition, transformational leadership behaviour and transactional leadership behaviour positively relate to OP rather than transfor-sactional leadership behaviour.

Practical implications

The findings of this study give credence to the disputed notion that KNS plays a significant role in effective leadership behaviours that enhances OP.

Originality/value

This paper provides a distinctive approach in examining the interrelationship among leadership behaviours, OP and KNS in the Ghanaian financial service sector.