Developing a Framework for Identifying the Executive Contexts of the Professionalization of Human Resource Management

The purpose of this study is to provide a framework for identifying the executive contexts of the professionalization of human resource management. In this research, the methodology of multiple-grounded theory is used. Data obtained from the systematic review of related studies and researches of the last five decades (41 studies) in the area of human resource management on professionalization in combining with data obtained from interviews with 15 theoretical or academics experts and HR executives or practitioners, which were selected by combining sampling methods including purposive and snowball, were combined for analysis. Experts' opinions were used to validate the mentioned framework in two sequential stages to confirm the results. Based on meta-synthesis approach, eight sub-categories were identified in the form of three general categories of environmental, organizational and behavioral factors. As well, based on the results of interviews with these experts, sub-categories in the form of two general categories of driving and restraining factors was added to the final framework, which conceptualizes the status of the professionalization contexts. Managers and experts in the field of human resources are recommended to pay attention to the hard i.e. training and recruitment, and soft i.e. development, performance management, aspects of professionalization of human resources, and moreover, to consider the separation of policy level from administration level. Furthermore, it’s recommended to create a competent-based organization in managing public organizations.