Strategisches Personalmanagement in der Behindertenhilfe

: Erfolgsfaktoren der Mitarbeiterbindung in dezentralen NPO's

Abstract

This master's thesis explores how employee retention can be strategically designed and sustainably enhanced within decentralized non-profit organizations (NPOs) in the field of disability support. The starting point is the growing significance of NPOs as key service providers in the social sector, which increasingly face major personnel-related challenges due to demographic shifts, structural changes, and a growing shortage of skilled professionals. The focus lies on the interaction between decentralized organizational structures, individual employee commitment, and strategic human resource management. The study investigates which factors influence employee retention in decentralized settings and how targeted measures at the organizational and leadership levels can foster long-term commitment. To address the research question, a qualitative case study was conducted using the Arcus Sozialnetzwerk gGmbH as an example. The research design included the analysis of secondary data from an employee survey conducted by Arcus Sozialnetzwerk gGmbH, semistructured interviews with staff members from various regional locations, and a focus group with managers from the respective facilities. The collected data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The findings reveal that key factors influencing retention include identification with the organization’s values, a participative leadership culture, transparent communication, opportunities for personal development, and involvement in decision-making processes. At the same time, the decentralized structure presents specific demands on coordination, leadership, and strategic management. Based on the empirical findings, the thesis formulates concrete recommendations that offer guidance for the development of strategic HR management in decentralized social organizations and contribute to sustainable employee retention.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	German (Austria)
Supervisor	Brigitta Nöbauer (Supervisor)