Date of Conferral

6-17-2025

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Business Administration

Advisor

Jodine Burchell

Abstract

Flexible work arrangements (FWAs) have become increasingly significant in contemporary workplace settings, particularly for their role in enhancing employee morale and promoting work-life balance. Education stakeholders and employees are concerned with the failure to implement FWAs, as it may hinder employee productivity and retention. Grounded in the conceptual framework of Theory Z, the purpose of this qualitative pragmatic inquiry was to explore senior HR leaders’ strategies to implement successful flexible work arrangements for employees. The study involved six educational leaders from the northeastern United States who successfully implemented flexible work arrangements. Data were collected through semi structured interviews and publicly available documents. Thematic analysis, supported by NVivo software, was used to identify key implementation strategies. Findings revealed six key themes: (a) clear policy and communication, (b) assess role suitability and employee preferences, (c) leverage technology and support, (d) performance and accountability metrics, (e) train and support managers, and (f) monitor, evaluate, and adapt. One key recommendation is that senior HR leaders should adopt a comprehensive approach to implementing FWAs by prioritizing clear policy development, investing in a robust technological infrastructure, providing targeted managerial training, and establishing a continuous evaluation process. The implications for positive social change include the potential for senior HR and educational institution leaders to enhance employee work-life balance, extend employment access to underserved populations, and contribute to broader economic development.

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