The devolvement of HR practices in Saudi Arabian public universities: Exploring tensions and challenges

This paper explores tensions and challenges in the devolvement of HR practices and processes as well as opportunities for strategic HRM alignment and how it will benefit Saudi Arabia (SA) higher education institutions. The research found high level of HR devolved to Deans, Heads of Schools and Colleges leading to power struggle, duplication and role ambiguity of HRM functions, loss of credibility and execution complications. These tensions have further been heightened by HR managers resistance to such changes due to uncertainties of losing their status and legitimacy. The lack of recognition and coordination between HR units and faculties points to limited evidence of strategic HRM. This paper supports the alignment and integration of HRM processes and practices within Saudi Arabia's higher education institutions. The findings are valuable for aligning strategic HRM processes and practices to build the human capital of Saudi higher education institutions.