Optimize your leadership pipeline: leveraging HR analytics for C-suite executive development
International Journal of Manpower
ISSN: 0143-7720
Article publication date: 7 August 2023
Issue publication date: 22 November 2023
Abstract
Purpose
This paper employs human resources (HR) analytics to investigate the pathways through which high-potential managers ascend to C-suite positions, and how different developmental paths influence turnover among executives.
Design/methodology/approach
By combining job analysis and competency assessment with sequence analysis, the authors utilize HR analytics to analyze the work experiences of 53 general managers spanning 57 years (n = 2,742), encompassing various roles, job requirements, and 20 executive competencies attached to over 1,000 positions.
Findings
This study's findings reveal three distinct developmental paths that lead to the C-suite, characterized by differences in the content, context, timing, and complexity of work experience. Furthermore, the authors identify that a more complex developmental path tends to reinforce executives' competency in self-awareness while inhibiting their development of technical competency, ultimately resulting in reduced executive turnover.
Originality/value
By employing HR analytics to analyze empirical data embedded in job and organizational contexts, this study sheds light on the critical role of timing and complexity of work experiences in executive development. It also offers practical implications for firms seeking to optimize their leadership pipeline and reduce executive turnover by leveraging HR analytics effectively.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This paper forms part of a special section “Methodological Advances in HR Research”, guest edited by Dr Lin Xiu and Prof Thomas Lange.
Citation
Zhu, G., Wang, L. and Hall, D.T. (2023), "Optimize your leadership pipeline: leveraging HR analytics for C-suite executive development", International Journal of Manpower, Vol. 44 No. 7, pp. 1328-1361. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJM-07-2022-0341
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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