Exploring talent management practices in SMEs in a turbulent context: lessons from Brexit and Covid-19

Talent management is a rapidly evolving subject of study. At all levels of an organisation, talent is critical to success. When managed properly, it has a beneficial effect on the bottom line. As a result, talent management has become a critical strategic issue for businesses worldwide. However, there is a dearth of research on applying TM concepts and practices in various corporate settings, including SMEs. This thesis examines TM practices in SMEs during turbulent times (Brexit and Covid-19). First, it discusses TM’s application in SMEs, followed by the current state of TM in UK SMEs and the impact of talent retention on UK SMEs during times of turbulence. Next, an integrated institutional resource-based framework is developed from human resource management and talent management fields to achieve this goal. Two (2) case studies of SMEs operating in the UK were selected to address the research questions and validate the framework using a qualitative and abductive research approach. Twenty-eight (28) semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with owners, managers, and employees of participating companies, supplemented by qualitative documentation method, following the framework’s order and structure. According to the empirical findings, talent management practices are critical in turbulence and uncertainty for the SME sector. Finally, the integrated institutional resource-based TM framework is reviewed and modified to facilitate future researchers and practitioners’ use and expansion. Additionally, the findings of the thesis add to the body of existing research and practice. Finally, it provides recommendations about the role of human resource management and talent management practices in enabling organisations to configure valuable and committed employees with a high level of knowledge, skills, and abilities. Overall, the study adds to a better theoretical understanding of talent management in the context of SMEs in the UK, a subject that has received little attention in the literature

Reports to the President

A compilation of annual reports for the 1988-1989 academic year, including a report from the President of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, as well as reports from the academic and administrative units of the Institute. The reports outline the year's goals, accomplishments, honors and awards, and future plans