Human Resource Aspirations and Talent Development towards Research Excellence: An Institutional Study of the Faculty of Accountancy of a Malaysian Public University

Abstract

This study investigates the Faculty of Accountancy’s human resource (HR) aspirations and integrated talent development initiatives in cultivating a culture of academic excellence, research productivity, and innovation. Guided by a conceptual framework that integrates the Ability–Motivation–Opportunity (AMO) model, Communities of Practice (CoP), Plan–Do–Check–Act (PDCA) cycle, and Self-Determination Theory (SDT), the research explores how HR strategies, diversity, and recognition systems shape institutional outcomes. Five objectives drive the inquiry: to examine the FPN’s HR aspirations; evaluate initiatives such as Talent Clusters, Research Track, and Research Champion; assess recruitment, diversity, and qualifications; analyse monitoring and risk management systems; and explore the motivational role of recognition and innovation support. Adopting a qualitative case study design, data collected through semi-structured interviews with top management and senior academics, focus group discussions with junior academics, and content analysis of key performance indicators (KPIs) and progress records (2020–2023). Thematic analysis, complemented by document-based content analysis and triangulation to ensure credibility and trustworthiness. This research contributes to the literature by providing an empirically understanding of how integrated HR strategies and talent initiatives influence research, publication, and innovation outcomes within higher education institutions. Findings are expected to offer practical insights for policymakers and academic leaders in aligning recruitment, talent development, and recognition systems with institutional performance goals, while also strengthening a research driven organisational culture.