The Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) alignment with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) Universities’ vision

Abstract

Several studies have identified that employees’ performance correlates with the strategies of their human resource management. The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and the Institutes of Education Study (IES) have critically discussed this, yet the practical alignment of performance and strategic human resource management (SHRM) is lacking, particularly in Asian and Middle East countries like the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This study is based on the aim of aligning SHRM practice within the higher education institutions of Saudi Arabia. This study explores relevant literature and draws on primary data from the online platforms of multiple universities. The current study uses a quantitative and qualitative approach that was conducted thematically by using an online questionnaire to collect data from different Saudi universities. The questionnaire primarily comprised closed questions; however, to gain deeper insights, certain questions were kept open. Quantitative variables were statistically analysed, and qualitative textual answers were analysed thematically. The sample size of 170 individuals validated the research reliability and identified key areas needed to realign strategy as the response for most variables was moderate. The results indicated that higher education managers and lecturers are aware of the significance of sustainable SHRM measures, but they cannot balance work and family life. Furthermore, working is not done in teams as communication is poor, and, most importantly, training is not regular. Therefore, the extent of alignment is moderate, and realignment is necessary using the implementation plan provided in this research.