Narrow Results

This paper is an attempt to improve the understanding of the role played by professionalism in the implementation of a high-performance work system (HPWS). Based on institution theory, this paper seeks to investigate how professional norms (i.e. the competence and political stature of the actors involved) as an institutional factor affects the efficacy of the relationship interaction between human resources (HR) and line managers when implementing HPWS functions. In other words, investigating the extent to which the partnership and co-ordination between HR and line management exists based on their professional norms. Using a case study involving two Saudi banks, and conducting semistructure interview with 54 managers, results indicated that both HR professionals and unit members' political stature and competencies have significant impacts on building trust and reciprocity. Furthermore, line managers' work-type priorities and interests form another vital factor that has an implication for the level of interaction between the two players.