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Purpose – The purpose of this study aims to investigate the relationships among leadership behavior and academic performance in Iraqi universities, given the mediating role of knowledge management (KM). Design/methodology/approach – This research will employ the use of quantitative research method to reach out to a broader population sample made up of 1,210 questionnaires on academic leaders and academic staff was distributed in 25 Iraqi public universities. The hypothesis testing being employed is based on the estimating structural equation model (SEM). Findings – The final structural model that uses maximum likelihood estimation analysis confirmed a goodness of fit indices to the data. The mediating role of KM has partial significant effect on the relationship between leadership behavior and academic performance. Research limitations/implications - The inherent limitation is in the sampling frame and the results cannot be generalized to the whole education like private universities. This study can contribute and support the national strategic plan 2009-2013 of Iraq HEIs. Social implications – According to the interviews with academic leaders and staff in Iraqi universities, the academic leaders agreed that the problems of leadership stemmed from the lack of utilization of information technology in managing knowledge in their universities to treat social and economic issues. Originality/value– In raises support for the objectives of National Strategy 2009 – 2013 of the Iraqi HEIs, the findings of the current study may support academics staff and leaders in how they can improve academic activities in their universities through KM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]