Human Resource Management (HRM) in Local Government. Demographic Change and HR Strategies in the Administrative Districts of Lower Saxony, Germany

Academic Paper from the year 2020 in the subject Leadership and Human Resources - Leadership, grade: 1,0, language: English, abstract: Public sector organizations in Germany face major challenges due to demographic change, including a growing shortage of skilled employees and young professionals. This study analyzes how local governments and district administrations in Lower Saxony adapt their Human Resource Management (HRM) strategies to ensure long-term success and sustainable personnel policies. The paper defines the concept and core areas of Human Resource Management in the public sector, tracing its historical development and highlighting current challenges such as the modernization gap and resource constraints. Key HRM activities - including personnel recruitment, employer branding and recruiting, employee retention, demographic management, personnel development, talent management, and separation processes - are examined in detail, with special attention to the specific requirements of public administration. The empirical part focuses on the district authorities of Lower Saxony. Based on a comprehensive survey and case study interviews (e.g. the Hildesheim district), the research evaluates HRM practices in public administration, identifies optimization potential, and develops practical recommendations for a future-oriented, holistic Human Resource Management. This paper provides valuable insights for scholars, HR professionals, and practitioners in the public sector who are interested in HR strategies, demographic change, and personnel development in local government.