Influence of Succession Planning Strategies on the Performance of Non-Governmental Research Organizations in Kenya.

Succession planning is probably the most crucial and critical phase in the lifecycle of an organization because it ensures sustainability and continuity. The objective of the study was to find out the influence of succession planning strategies on organizational performance of non-governmental organizations in Kenya. The specific objectives were to find out the influence of human resource planning, performance management, talent management and career development on organization performance of non-governmental organizations in Kenya. The study used a descriptive research design. The unit of analysis in this study was 25 local and international non- governmental research organizations in Kenya. The unit of observation in this study was the top management staff as well as general staff. This study used stratified random sampling technique to select 222 respondents of target population. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and interviews. Collected data was analyzed using qualitative and quantitative techniques. The study found that human resource planning, performance management, talent management and career development as strategies for succession planning had a positive and significant influence on the performance of non-governmental research organizations in Kenya. The study concludes that among the succession planning strategies, human resource planning and career development had the most significant influence. The study recommends appropriate succession planning through effective communication, formalized structures and knowledge dissemination. In addition, the management of non-governmental research organizations should develop strategies based on talent attraction, talent development and talent retention through competitive remuneration and provision of a conducive work environment. Keywords: Succession Planning Strategies, Influence of Human Resource and Organizational Performanc