Strategic human resource development (SHRD) in lean times: assessing its maturity in Greek banks at the time of the economic crisis

Abstract

Purpose: This study explores SHRD's maturity in Greek banks within the context of the economic crisis. It aims to explore and advance our understanding of how SHRD is perceived within diverse institutions through the respective lens of different HRD stakeholders, while also portraying the factors inhibiting or facilitating its adoption, and accordingly contributing to its maturity in some organisations during lean economic times. Methodology: The study draws upon qualitative research data from two case study banking organisations in Greece, reporting on 76 semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders (HR staff, Bank Managers, employees). Interview questions were focused on a pre and post-crisis assessment, supplemented by the analysis of various organisational documents. A modified SHRD model was also employed so as to assess and evaluate SHRD’s maturity within organisations. Findings: Research evidence highlights the complexity attached with stakeholders' perception of SHRD, and the level of its maturity respectively. This entanglement is further explained through a variety of factors inhibiting or expediting its strategic adoption in some organisations, and further contributed to its maturity, at the time of the economic crisis. Research Limitations: The analysis is limited by non-including other key stakeholders (e.g. top management, T&D third parties, unions etc.), along with its sole focus within the Greek territory; thus, future research may consist of a comparison amongst bank institutions from different countries, along with including interviews with representatives from other potential groups of interest. Practical Implications: Familiarise organisational stakeholders with SHRD's necessity and complexity during hard economic times. Make HR executives aware of the level of maturity of their HRD practices so as to proceed to all necessary amendments in order to increase their strategic embeddedness. Originality/Value: The research’s value derives from its critical mindset, thus extending existing SHRD theory and models through its multi-constituent research perspective. Likewise, it enhances existing knowledge on SHRD maturity both within a different industrial and cultural context and within the context of an economic crisis