Stratford Peer Reviewed Journals and Books
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Talent Management and Productivity of Manufacturing Firms. A Case Study of Westrock Company in Atlanta, Georgia
No full textTalent management lies at the core of WestRock Company's success in Atlanta, Georgia. Through strategic talent acquisition aligned with their core values and industry demands, WestRock attracts and retains skilled employees who drive innovation and productivity. Their robust productivity management framework fosters a culture of accountability, ensuring employees' efforts are aligned with organizational goals, thus enhancing overall productivity. By integrating continuous learning initiatives and sustainability principles, WestRock not only sustains a competitive edge in the manufacturing sector but also cultivates a workforce that is adept, engaged, and committed to driving the company's growth. Research findings reveal that the company's strategic approach to talent acquisition, involving alignment with core values and industry needs, has led to a highly motivated and skilled workforce. The integration of continuous learning, robust Productivity management, and a commitment to sustainability has further propelled WestRock's Productivity, fostering innovation, accountability, and employee engagement, thereby contributing to its sustained success in the competitive manufacturing sector. In conclusion, the comprehensive talent management strategies employed by WestRock Company in Atlanta, Georgia, have unequivocally demonstrated their pivotal role in shaping the company's exceptional Productivity in the manufacturing sector. By synergizing strategic talent acquisition, continuous learning, robust productivity management, and sustainability integration, WestRock has not only cultivated a workforce that is highly skilled, engaged, and aligned with the organization's values, but has also positioned itself as a model for achieving sustained success and competitiveness in the dynamic business landscape. The study recommended that the company can further optimize its talent management and productivity by implementing advanced data analytics to enhance productivity monitoring and decision-making, thereby fostering continuous improvement and innovation across its manufacturing operations.
Keywords: Talent management, Productivity, manufacturing firms, Georgi
Transformational Leadership and Performance of Public Sector Social Security Agencies in Kenya
No full textThe performance of public sector social security in Kenya has not been adequate and many are facing dismal performance trends in the performance of social security. The purpose of the study was to examine the effect of transformational leadership on the performance of public sector social security agencies in Kenya. The study was anchored on transformational leadership theory. A positivist research philosophy was utilized in the study. The study adopted a correlational research design. The target population of the study was 176 public sector social security agencies in Kenya. The study purposively selected two managers from each of the 176 public sector social security agencies, resulting in a sample size of 352 participants. SPSS version 26 was used in the analysis of the data. The quantitative data from the closed-ended questions was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The data was presented using tables and graphs. The correlation results showed that transformational leadership is positively and significantly associated with performance (r = 0.770, p=0.000). Regression coefficient analysis revealed that for every one-unit increase in transformational leadership, performance is expected to increase by 0.703 units, holding other factors constant. The study concluded that transformational leadership has a significant effect on performance of public sector social security agencies in Kenya. The study recommends that the management should adopt a transformational leadership style to enhance the performance of the agency. This can include seeking differing perspectives from employees, encouraging innovation and creativity, offering support and empowerment, promoting problem-solving, meeting employee needs, delegating tasks, fostering diversity, treating individuals as unique, delegating authority and sharing information. In addition, there is the need of encouraging cooperation, instilling belief in positive impact, taking risks, complying with organizational values, earning trust and respect, modeling ethical behavior, aligning behavior with organizational goals, and encouraging a high-performance culture.
Keywords: Transformational leadership, performance, public sector social security agencies, Kenya
Impact of Authentic Leadership on Employee Well-Being and Work-Life Balance in Suntory Beverage & Food Limited, Japan
No full textAuthentic leadership practices have a significant positive impact on employee well-being, fostering a work environment characterized by trust, transparency, and ethical conduct. Such leadership behaviors create a supportive atmosphere where employees experience improved emotional satisfaction, psychological fulfillment, and physical health. The promotion of authentic leadership is instrumental in enhancing work-life balance, allowing employees to strike a healthier equilibrium between their professional and personal lives. Suntory Beverage & Food Limited is a leading company in the Japanese beverage industry, known for its diverse range of products, including soft drinks, teas, and alcoholic beverages. With a strong commitment to quality and innovation, the company has a significant presence in both domestic and international markets, playing a vital role in shaping the beverage industry's landscape. The findings reveal a strong positive correlation between authentic leadership practices and enhanced employee well-being, encompassing physical health, emotional satisfaction, and psychological fulfillment. Authentic leadership positively influences work-life balance, as employees who perceive their leaders as authentic report a better balance between their professional and personal lives. In conclusion, the study highlights the significant impact of authentic leadership on both employee well-being and work-life balance within Suntory Beverage & Food Limited, Japan. By fostering authentic leadership practices throughout the organization, Suntory can continue to create a nurturing work environment that prioritizes the holistic well-being of its employees and supports a more balanced professional and personal life. The study recommended that Suntory Beverage & Food Limited should further invest in authentic leadership development programs to empower leaders at all levels with the skills to promote employee well-being and work-life balance. Additionally, the organization should actively promote a well-being and work-life balance culture by implementing flexible working arrangements, mental health support, and clear policies that underscore the importance of employee well-being.
Keywords: Authentic Leadership, Employee, Work-Life Balance, Japa
The Role of HR and Line Managers in Policy Implementation: A Collaborative Approach to Efficiency and Effectiveness
No full textThis study examines the cooperative responsibilities of Human Resource (HR) departments and line managers in executing organizational policies. The objective is to clarify the interconnections between HR's strategic planning and line managers' tactical execution in order to attain organizational efficiency and effectiveness. The study utilizes a literature-based review, incorporating various scholarly works and theories, such as Armstrong's Handbook of Human Resource Management Practice and Mintzberg's organizational configurations theory. The review highlights the importance of the interconnectedness between HR and line managers in the execution of policies. This statement highlights that successful policy implementation is not a one-sided effort, but rather requires both parties to take on mutual obligations and have a collective comprehension of strategic goals. The proliferation of decentralization trends has amplified the responsibilities and independence of line managers, thereby rendering the collaborative approach more indispensable than ever. In addition, the ever-changing characteristics of contemporary work environments, including elements like diversity and remote work, heighten the necessity for flexibility and ongoing communication between HR and line managers. The study determines that the effectiveness of policy implementation within an organization is directly correlated with the degree of collaboration between the Human Resources department and line managers. Both parties must actively participate in transparent communication and adjust their approaches according to specific obstacles and organizational circumstances. Additionally, it is emphasized that having a multi-frame perspective is crucial for comprehending and handling the complexities within an organization. In general, the collaborative approach is a fundamental element for achieving success within an organization.
Keywords: Role of HR, Line Managers, Policy Implementation, Collaborative Approach, Efficiency and Effectivenes
Big Data Analytics and Competitive Advantage: Evidences from Healthcare Services Organistions in Lagos State, Nigeria
No full textThis paper investigated the effect of big data analytics and its six sub-dimensions on the competitive advantage of healthcare service organisations. Big data analytics have six sub-dimensions: agility capability, data-driven decision making, business intelligence, information technology capability, Internet of Things (IoT) application software, and cloud computing. Big Data Analytics (BDA) refers to the advanced analytical techniques used to process and derive valuable knowledge from large datasets. While BDA has the potential to offer significant business insights and create immense value, many organisations struggle to fully capitalise on their BDA initiatives and gain a competitive advantage. Despite the opportunities presented by BDA, some firms face challenges in effectively leveraging and extracting value from their data analytics endeavours. The study adopted a survey research design. The population of the study comprised 3931 employees of accredited healthcare service firms in Lagos State. The study utilised mixed sampling techniques comprising purposive, proportionate, and random sampling techniques. A sample size of 676 participants was obtained using Cochran’s sample size formula (1977). An adapted questionnaire was used, and an 83.3% response rate was achieved. The Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients for various constructs ranged from 0.769 to 0.904. The data were analysed using inferential (regression) analysis. The findings revealed that big data analytics dimensions had a significant effect on competitive advantage (Adj.R2 = 0.937; (F (6, 556) = 0.937), p<0.05). The study concluded that big data analytics affected the competitive advantage of healthcare firms in Lagos State, Nigeria. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that the management of healthcare service organisations in Lagos State invest in the combination of Big Data Analytics (BDA) dimensions in order to achieve a long-term competitive advantage. Also, management should use BDA to support the operational activities of the firm to increase cost efficiencies and develop firm-specific BDA knowledge.
Keywords: Big data analytics, Healthcare organisation, Competitive advantage, Internet of things application, Information technology capability, Lagos Stat
Techniques Applied in Tacit Knowledge Creation for Competitive Advantage in Selected Classified Hotels within Mombasa City County, Kenya
No full textThis study explored techniques applied in tacit knowledge creation in selected classified hotels within Mombasa City County, Kenya. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was used, with questionnaires, interview schedules, and secondary sources used to collect data. A sample of 835 respondents was drawn from a population of 5911 participants, which included departmental managers, departmental supervisors, subordinate staff, and hotel guests. The qualitative data obtained was coded, ordered and summarized according to themes per specific objectives. Descriptive analysis was employed on demographic characteristics and related information. Pearson correlation analyses was employed to evaluate the relationships existing between the four predictors and competitive advantage. Multiple regression analyses were employed on moderating variable to investigate its effect on predictors and dependent variable relationship. The findings indicated that there was a positive significant correlation between tacit knowledge creation and competitive advantage in selected classified hotels (P=0.0001<0.05). The F-calculated for the two models was higher than the F-critical, where model 1 was F=11.475> 2.45 and model 2 was F=6.247 > 2.18. These models produced strong fits for the study data and hence could be applied in forecasting the moderating effect of organizational factors on the association between tacit knowledge management and competitive advantage. The resulting R-value was calculated as0.916, and further indicated a high correlation degree between the Tacit Knowledge Creation and Competitive Advantage. The resulting R2 (Square) value obtained was 0.839, which indicated that the independent (Predictors) variables explained 83.9% of Competitive advantage in selected classified hotels within Mombasa City County. As a result, other elements not covered by this research accounted for 16.1% of the competitive advantage matrix. In this regard, this study recommended the hotel industry policy makers to propose application of Tacit Knowledge creation techniques as competitiveness strategies.
Keywords: Techniques, Tacit Knowledge, Creation, Competitive Advantag
Inclusive Practices in Malaysian Eco-Tourism: A Comprehensive Roadmap for the Future of Sustainable and Diverse Tourism
No full textThis study, aimed to investigate the extent to which eco-tourism ventures in Malaysia incorporate inclusive and sustainable practices. The problem identified was a lack of comprehensive strategies that encompass environmental protection, social inclusion, and economic benefits. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach that involved surveying 500 tourists and interviewing 20 eco-tourism operators, we examined the existing practices and perspectives on inclusivity and sustainability. Findings revealed that only 30% of eco-tourism ventures implemented concrete inclusive policies, such as providing facilities for individuals with disabilities or incorporating local communities in decision-making. Furthermore, while 70% of operators reported some sustainable practices like waste management and limited deforestation, these measures were often ad hoc and lacked a holistic approach. As for tourists, 80% expressed that inclusive practices significantly influenced their choice of eco-tourism activities, yet 65% were unaware of the actual inclusive policies of the ventures they patronized. The study concluded that although some initiatives are in place, a structured framework is necessary for a truly inclusive and sustainable eco-tourism industry in Malaysia. Recommendations include the development of national guidelines for inclusivity, more rigorous audits of existing eco-tourism operators, and public awareness campaigns aimed at both tourists and operators. Governmental support in the form of tax incentives and grants for ventures that adopt inclusive and sustainable practices can also catalyze the change needed. This research thus serves as a roadmap for stakeholders, suggesting a multi-pronged approach to making Malaysian eco-tourism a beacon for inclusivity and sustainability.
Keywords: Inclusive Practices, Malaysian Eco-Tourism, Sustainability, Policy Framework, Stakeholder Involvemen
Literature Review of Psychological Treatments among Victims of Intimate Partner Violence
No full textThe paper has provided an extensive review on the subject matter of the psychological treatments that are commonly used among the victims of Intimate Partner Violence. The individuals in the mentioned population are known to experience IPV in the form of physical, psychological and sexual abuse, mostly. In turn, it affects their mental health, and hence the need for them to receive psychological treatment based on specific symptoms being experienced. The review has given consideration to the psychological treatments that are supported by empirical evidence. The psychological treatments included in this review include Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Meta-cognitive Interpersonal Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. In addition, in the review, relevant recommendations have been made to ensure that victims of IPV are able to benefit significantly from the psychological treatments. There is also a need for researchers to come up with other interventions or treatment modalities for other none common adverse effects of IPV.
Keywords: Intimate Partner Violence, Psychological Treatments, Victims, Sexual Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Physical Abuse, Depressive, Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Symptoms, Post-Traumatic Disorder
Mediating Effect of Firm Size on the Nexus between Camel Rating Model and Financial Performance of Deposit Taking Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies in Kenya
No full textSavings and credit cooperatives are of importance to developing countries due to their huge contributions on the national economy. The study sought to examine the mediation effect of firm size on the relationship between CAMEL rating model and financial performance of deposit taking SACCOs in Kenya. The study emanates from the Doctoral dissertation of the first author where the co-authors served as supervisors. Efficiency structure theory and working capital management theory were used. Panel regression analysis was used based on secondary data for the period 2013 to 2022. The study established that the mediation effect of firm size on the relationship between CAMEL rating model and financial performance of deposit taking SACCOs in Kenya was significant. Higher market value and consequently financial performance are linked to institutions with large firm sizes. It is therefore recommended that SACCOs should strive towards growing their total assets which will subsequently translate to higher profits and ultimately higher financial performance. The advantages of economies of scale of large institutions should be fully maximized so as to sustain higher financial performance of SACCOs.
Keywords: CAMEL Rating Model, Firm Size, Financial Performance and Deposit Taking SACCO
Teachers’ Competence and Students’ Academic Performance in Secondary Schools in Rwanda
No full textThe level of teachers’ competence plays a significance role in the promotion of students’ performance especially in academic perspective. The school leadership and educational practitioners have to improve the level of teachers’ competence so as to improve the level of students ‘academic performance which is proportional too. The purpose of this study therefore, sought to establish the relationship between teachers' competence and students’ academic performance in Gakenke District in Rwanda. This study used a correlation research design to investigate the relationship between teachers' competence and students' academic performance in secondary schools in Gakenke District, Rwanda. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews from a sample size of 329 respondents out of a target population of 1839, and statistical analysis using SPSS software was performed, including correlation and regression analysis to determine the relationship between variables. The findings showed the overall mean of 4.19 is between Agree (4) and Strongly Agree (5) which indicates that almost students agreed that their academic performance is good. On correlation between teachers' qualification and students’ academic performance, the results presented that there is a statistical significance high degree of positive relationship between teachers’ competence and students’ academic performance with P-value = .000 which is less than 0.01 as the level of significance and Pearson coefficient of correlation r = .848 which is high and indicates that there is a relationship correlated to the teachers’ qualifications and students’ academic performance. The study concludes that the competence of teachers, expertise, teaching methods and students’ participation in lessons and good instructions at schools successfully promote the students’ academic performance. The recommendations from the study include regular quality checks by the Ministry of Education to ensure teachers' competence and the provision of appropriate skills to students, schools organizing effective instruction and hiring qualified teachers to improve academic performance, teachers personally developing their competence through further studies and training to enhance the quality of skills imparted to students, and students actively attending lessons and adhering to school guidelines to achieve better academic performance.
Keywords: Competence, Teachers’ competence, Academic performance, students’ academic performance