The Challenges of Global Talent Management. How does the football industry overcome the GTM challenges and how can their experiences inspire MNCs operating in knowledge-intensive industries?

Abstract: The personnel of MNCs is becoming increasingly important for a firm's success. At the same time the competition for the best or highly skilled employees, also referred as talents, are increasing for several reasons, such as globalisation and demographic changes. This competitive environment requires a more specific set of IHRM activities compared to traditional IHRM, which deals more deeply with issues like attracting, developing and retaining talents. This particular subset of IHRM activities is called Global Talent Management. However, many managers lack the knowledge about how to address these challenges. Looking at previous studies, there is a lack of clear suggestions on methods used to overcome GTM challenges. To find inspiration of efficient GTM, we have through a case study investigated into the football industry which is a less traditional industry, but yet it is an industry with a long presence and with a significant global reach. Moreover, it is an industry aware of the importance of their talents and where the competition for the best talent always has been present. Our research shows that the football industry does, in fact, have some methods to overcome the GTM challenges, which could be of inspiration for MNCs operating in the knowledge-intensive industry. Examples of learnings include split management roles and more customised development plans. Another key finding is that retention is not of as high importance as attraction and development.