Date of Conferral
8-25-2026
Date of Award
August 2026
Degree
Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
School
Management
Advisor
Michael Campo
Abstract
Employee turnover remains a persistent challenge in the U.S. poultry processing industry. Leaders in the U.S. poultry processing industry are concerned that high employee turnover increases operating costs, disrupts productivity, and contributes to workforce instability. Grounded in organizational support theory, this qualitative pragmatic inquiry research project explored successful strategies that leaders in the U.S. poultry processing industry use to enhance employee retention. The participants were six leaders from poultry processing facilities in the southeastern United States. Data were collected through semistructured interviews and supplemented with workplace observations and organizational records related to retention initiatives and turnover trends. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis process. Four themes emerged from the analysis: (a) open communication and trust, (b) individualized employee support, (c) early engagement and onboarding, and (d) recognition and appreciation. A key recommendation is for frontline and operational leaders in the U.S. poultry processing industry to proactively demonstrate consistent communication and individualized support for employees. The implications for positive social change include the potential to improve employee well-being, strengthen workplace relationships, and promote workforce stability for employees, families, organizations, and communities that depend on stable employment opportunities.
Recommended Citation
Sisson, Gary Dale, "Strategies to Enhance Employee Retention Among Leaders in the U.S. Poultry Processing Industry" (2026). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 20496.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/20496
