Do “high-performance” human resource practices work in public universities? Mediation of organizational and supervisors’ supports

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between “high-performance” human resource practices (HPHRP) and organizational performance, using organizational and supervisors’ supports as mediating variables. Design/methodology/approach - Using cross-sectional design, the data were obtained from 311 public university lecturers in Nigeria. The study employed partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) in the analysis. Findings - The results suggested that the application of HPHRP in the public universities has direct and indirect effects on organizational performance. Also, HPHRP are linked with both organizational support and supervisory support. In turn, the organizational support and supervisory support are strongly linked with organizational performance. Furthermore, both organizational support and supervisory support fully mediate the positive relationships between HPHRP and organizational performance. The mediating role of both organizational support and supervisory support revealed their significance in HPHRP-performance link particularly within the context of public universities. Research limitations/implications - The study employed self-report in collecting data for all the major constructs. Practical implications - The study demonstrated the importance of HPHR practices (rigorous selection processes; training and development opportunities; information and communication practices; employee involvement in decision making; job security; fair reward system; team working and career management) and how they are directly related to organizational support, supervisory support and performance of organization. Second, for the management to enhance organizational performance (particularly in public universities), the need to emphasize on appropriate and effective HRM practices capable of promoting organizational and supervisory supports is required. This will enable the creation of supportive work environment that will promote better organizational performance. Originality/value - The study adds value by providing additional understanding of the significant role of organizational support and supervisors support in HPHRP-organizational performance link.