LEADERSHIP IN HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: NAVIGATING THE COMPLEXITIES OF HYBRID EMPLOYMENT MODELS

Abstract

The emergence of hybrid work models represents a fundamental transformation in contemporary employment practices, challenging traditional human resource management (HRM) paradigms and leadership frameworks. This study examines the critical role of leadership in HRM within hybrid employment contexts, integrating empirical evidence from recent research to explore the competencies, practices, and strategic adaptations necessary for organizational success. Drawing on literature from 2021-2025, this article analyzes how transformational and adaptive leadership approaches influence employee engagement, organizational performance, and workforce resilience in hybrid settings. The findings reveal that hybrid work models, when strategically managed through outcome-based leadership, digital communication competencies, and inclusive HRM practices, can reduce employee attrition by 33% while maintaining productivity levels. However, challenges including proximity bias, communication barriers, and cultural fragmentation require intentional leadership interventions. This research contributes to HRM scholarship by synthesizing contemporary evidence on leadership competencies for hybrid teams and proposing an integrated framework for strategic HRM transformation in the post-pandemic workplace.