Inikpi Ugbatigbi2025-09-232025-09-232024-12Kate TurabiaM.Schttps://repository.lcu.edu.ng/handle/123456789/1079The study was an examination of stress management techniques and employees Performance of small and medium enterprises in Ibadan Nigeria. The specific objectives were to examine the influence of stress management techniques on employees operational performance, satisfaction and engagement. Three research questions and hypotheses guided the study. It utilized a descriptive research design, and employed quantitative research tools and questionnaires for data collection. A total of 381 SMEs managers and employees was adopted as sample size using the purposive sampling techniques. Data collected was analyzed using tables to present mean values, frequency and standard deviation for data presentation. Multiple regression was utilized to test the hypothesis @ 0.5 level of significance. Findings of the study show that stress management techniques have significant relationship on employee operational performance, employee satisfaction and employee engagement in small and medium enterprise in Ibadan. (For work motivation, B = 3.024, SE = 0.215, ? = 0.201, t = 3.111, P = 0.002, For social support system, B = 2.093, SE = 0.282, ? = 0.279, t = 3.328, P = 0.005, For work –life balance, B = 2.515, SE = 0.294, ? = 0.518, t = 4.751, P = 0.001 For structural Leadership, B = 2.230, SE = SE = 0.239, ? = 0.243, t = 3.962, P < 0.001. The result indicates that improves work motivation, social support system, work-life balance and structure leadership. Improve, Boost and significantly influence operational performance of SMEs in Ibadan). The study concluded that stress management techniques is critical towards the sustainability of employee performance. Recommendations proffered include the need for SMEs to implement comprehensive stress management program, promote leadership development programme, enhance employee motivation, and support system, prioritize work life balance and ensure continuous evaluation and improvement of employees. Key words: Structured Leadership, Work Motivation, Work Life Balance, Employee Operational Performance, Employee Satisfaction, Employee Engagement. Word Count: 300enStructured LeadershipWork MotivationWork Life BalanceEmployee Operational PerformanceEmployee SatisfactionEmployee Engagement.Thesis