The perks of fitting like a glove

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to explore and gain an increased understanding of the key success factors behind young talent acquisition and development in terms of value creation, and thus contribute to the research field of Strategy - and Human Resource literature. This will be done by a case study of AAK, a leading producer of vegetable fats, to empirically analyze how they work with talent acquisition through their Trainee Program. The study was initiated by a theoretical review of existing theory belonging to the field of Strategic Human Resource Management, Talent Management, Employer Branding and previous research on Trainee Programs. A preliminary framework of key success factors behind acquisition and development of young talents was conducted, with help from existing research. The study is based on a case study and qualitative approach, where the main data have been collected through in-depth interviews. The gathered data have been analyzed by using pattern making, with the aim to create a final framework. The study included both deductive and inductive elements, thus the research process has been conducted using an abductive approach. The empiric material combined with the theoretical framework provided insights about factors that characterize successful Human Resource strategies behind acquisition and development of young talents. The presented final framework summarizes our findings. The framework gives a holistic view and description of key success factors behind development and acquisition of young talents in a global company.