Transforming HR into a strategic partner: a case study of organizational redesign for sustainable growth

Abstract

Purpose

This case study aims to explore the transformative role of human resources (HR) in driving organizational strategy. It focuses on how HR leaders in a multi-site physical therapy company led a comprehensive redesign of roles, processes, and organizational structures to align with business objectives and adapt to dynamic market conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a human-centered design (HCD) approach, HR leaders identified misalignments through stakeholder engagement and data analysis. Combining qualitative feedback with quantitative data, the HR team developed a systematic understanding of the organization and implemented strategic changes, including role clarification and resource optimization.

Findings

The transformation led by HR resulted in significant improvements in role clarity, employee engagement, and operational scalability. Outcomes included equitable role distributions for leadership, enhanced accountability frameworks and employee skill development. These changes positioned the organization for sustainable growth and heightened HR’s role as a strategic partner.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could explore longitudinal impacts of HR-led strategic transformations on organizational performance across diverse industries.

Practical implications

Organizations can leverage the findings to empower HR as a strategic partner, aligning people strategies with business goals to achieve competitive advantage. The study underscores the importance of HR’s involvement in organizational design and capability development for future readiness.

Originality/value

This case demonstrates HR’s evolving role from administrative support to strategic business leadership. It highlights the innovative use of HCD to align workforce and organizational design with business strategy. The study provides a replicable framework for organizations seeking to address operational inefficiencies and foster resilience.

Citation

Douglas, S. and Haley, G.R. (2025), "Transforming HR into a strategic partner: a case study of organizational redesign for sustainable growth", Strategic HR Review, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/SHR-12-2024-0101