BX3152 - Managing a Global Workforce

This subject provides an overview of Human Resource Management (HRM) in a global context. It covers a wide range of topics including the interface between national cultures and management of global/multinational and transnational/international corporations; the central role played by such corporations in the context of global labour markets and workforces; and HRM functions at play in a globalising business context. In addressing these topics, special attention is given to specific as well as emerging areas of practice, research and debate in the international HRM paradigm, such as: the impact of business structure and home/host-country institutions and culture; private regulation and corporate social responsibility; global labour issues and international regulatory frameworks; global management skills and the challenges posed by expatriate management. While this subject focuses on the complex task of managing globally, it also sheds a light on current and prospective issues surrounding global governance and best business practice in a global environment.

Learning Outcomes

• critically assess strategic HRM in the light of overall business structure and governance, with a focus on best practices and innovative HRM initiatives developed by multinational corporations;
• explain global labour issues and the impact of globalisation on labour organisations, industrial democracy, the international division of labour and labour standards;
• appraise the challenges involved in managing a cross-cultural workforce and managing trans-nationally, including expatriate management and the conduct of organisational change and development in global business operations;
• evaluate HRM from a comparative perspective with an emphasis on the mediating role played by national cultures and institutions and new trends in global corporate governance.

Subject Assessment

• Oral > Presentation 1 - (30%) - Group
• Written > Case study analysis - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Reflection/reflective task 1 - (30%) - Individual.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.