The role of governmental leadership mobility in stimulating technological innovation diffusion: city mayor and secretary transfer networks in China

While the study of government leadership mobility has made significant contributions, it has primarily focused on policy innovations, neglecting the pivotal role of technological advancements that have revolutionised government operations and productivity in recent decades. This study describes how leadership mobility functions as a conduit for fostering local technological innovation. Based on data on the mobility of mayors and party secretaries in 282 Chinese cities from 2004 to 2015, we find that the mobility of city officials between municipal governments can facilitate the diffusion of technological innovation. We also find that leadership mobility in a similar institutional background enhances the diffusion of technological innovation, whereas relocating leadership to cities with a more market-oriented orientation facilitates the diffusion of technological innovation. This article expands upon conventional research on innovation diffusion and offers a practical reference for the mobility of government personnel.