Factors Affecting Iraqi Academic Leaders' Communicative Competence in English: A Sequential Mixed Methods Study

English language communicative competence represents an academic leader's ability to use effectively. However, date, Iraqi leaders’ has not been as effective predictable and leads lower intake of international students in universities. This paper presents the findings a study which explored factors affecting English. The adopted exploratory sequential design, where nine semi-structured interviews were conducted online with leaders, followed by questionnaire distribution 108 additional leaders. participants for both parts from various universities Iraq. data collection analysis research guided four theories, namely theory, communication theory planned behaviour leadership model. Data collected transcribed analysed thematically. questionnaires descriptively inferentially using SPSS (v.20). most significant that cultural factors, positive attitude towards ability, efficiency communication, collaboration, problem-solving, critical skills affected competence. Finally, model developing among leaders was formulated based on findings. consists training programmes development digital tools use, electronic examination process efficient monitoring, initiatives enhancing leaders'