The purpose of the current study aims to explore the leadership of the team leaders in a Chinese university from the perspective of Leader-Member Exchange (LMX). To fill this gap in the literature, the current study used a qualitative case-study method examining the factors that affect LMX at a Chinese university and the dimensions of LMX at a Chinese university. What emerged from the data was that: (1) all three participants considered followers’ personalities an essential factor affecting the relationship between a leader and their followers; (2)  the matching between leaders and followers in their abilities, efforts, and personal aspirations is an essential factor affecting the relationship between leaders and followers; (3) leaders’ prior familiarity with followers is a critical factor affecting the relationship between leaders and followers; (4) the dimensions of leadership in the Chinese cultural context include mutual emotional support, trust, face, loyalty, commitment, and dedication; (5) there exists an element of paternal relationship in terms of the relationship between a leader and their followers in the Chinese culture.

There has been an increase in economic cooperation between China and Africa. The current study investigated the current status of Chinese Outward Direct Investment (ODI) in Africa and the factors that motivate Chinese companies to invest in Africa. Facing the challenges of investing in Africa, the current study suggested that China needed to enhance its soft power by intensifying academic and social exchange between Africa and China. Additionally, leaders working with Chinese companies investing in Africa can exercise cross-cultural leadership to create a harmonious and friendly relationship with their employees.