Explorative study of HRM integration within DAX30 German Automotive Manufacturer

This thesis presents a constructivist grounded theory study of Human Resources Management (HRM) integration within a DAX30 German Automotive Manufacturer. HRM integration is “‘the full integration of HRM with organisational strategy; HRM policies that cohere; and the integration of HRM within line management activities” (Sheenan, 2005: 193). This thesis explores via a blank canvas approach, and the possible disbandment of HR, the status quo and future orientation of HRM integration within a case study - A DAX30 German Automotive Manufacturer. This thesis identifies non-management employees, line-managers and members of the Human resources department concern at the disbandment of the HR function, providing emerging theory defending the current functional structure used within the organization. The status quo of HRM within the organization highlights the lack of strategy transparency and the requirement to adapt the business partner model being followed. The discussion surrounding HRM integration recognizes aspects of HRM integration to be paradoxical. The theory has been developed following the constructivist grounded theory approach, recommended by Charmaz (2006; 2014) and is based on semi-structured interviews with 36 company members of staff - 12 non-management employees, 12 line-managers and 12 members of the Human Resources department. Additional literature supports the theory. The theory adds to the current HRM integration literature, HRM in Germany and paradoxes, by considering HRM integration within a new context. The emergent theory highlights important considerations for the future, moreover the inclusion of strategic recommendations for the case study to enhance HRM integration. Furthermore, the study may be considered of relevance to Constructivist Grounded Theory research, considering methodology and reflections presented within this thesis. The emergent theory includes two models. The ‘HR justification model’ and the ‘HR integration review model’, which through further research and contextual analysis, can be developed for a wider audience.