Managing People in Sport Organizations
📘 About This Book
Managing People in Sport Organizations provides a comprehensive overview of the theory and practice of managing people within a human resource management framework. It provides the reader with the skills to understand and work with people in sport organizations and, given the significant changes in sport organizations over the past twenty years, it addresses the issues of managing organizational complexity and how human resources adds value. Written by a team of expert authors it: Provides a systematic approach to managing people based on well established conceptual frameworks supported by substantial empirical research Analysis and explains how to understand and work with people in organisationally complex situations Outlines how HR can support organisational strategy, positively impact performance and deliver sustainable success Designs a strategic human resource management plan that is effective, sustainable and able to adapt to changing conditions. Covers the key research findings in the key area of HR in sport. With each chapter including learning objectives, key issues, international cases studies and supported by online PowerPoint slides Managing People in Sport Organizations is the definitive text for this crucial area of sports management.
📖 Summary
Managing People in Sport Organizations, edited by Alison Doherty and published in 2009 across 327 pages, serves as a comprehensive guide exploring the intersection of human resource management and the unique operational landscape of the sports industry. Within the domain of business and economics, this text addresses the profound changes that have reshaped sports organizations over the past two decades. As these entities evolved into increasingly complex institutions, the need for strategic, systematic approaches to human resource management became paramount. The book is authored by a collaborative team of experts who combine well-established conceptual frameworks with substantial empirical research to illuminate how people function within sports settings. The core premise of the book is that human resources can and should add tangible value to an organization rather than simply serving an administrative function. To achieve this, the text provides readers with the essential skills required to understand, motivate, and work effectively with individuals and teams in organizationally complex situations. It systematically outlines how human resource strategies can align with and support broader organizational goals, ultimately creating a positive impact on overall performance. The book covers foundational theories of human resource management while tailoring them specifically to the nuances of sport governance, volunteer management, paid staff coordination, and leadership dynamics. By grounding its chapters in rigorous research, the text bridges the gap between academic theory and everyday professional practice. Readers are guided through the complexities of organizational behavior, learning how to navigate structural changes, enhance workforce productivity, and foster positive organizational cultures. Whether dealing with professional sports franchises, community clubs, or national governing bodies, the principles articulated throughout the volume help leaders build resilient and capable workforces. Ultimately, Managing People in Sport Organizations offers a thorough roadmap for anyone looking to master the human element of sports business, ensuring that organizations can adapt to modern challenges through strategic talent management and thoughtful leadership.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Provides a systematic approach to human resource management in sports.
Grounded in substantial empirical research and established theories.
Addresses the unique organizational complexities of modern sports entities.
Outlines practical ways for HR to support broader organizational strategy.
⚠️ Cons
Published in 2009, so some technological contexts may feel dated.
Focuses heavily on academic frameworks which may require careful translation for practical startup environments.
❓ FAQ
Who is the author of Managing People in Sport Organizations? +
The book is edited by Alison Doherty, with contributions from a team of expert authors.
When was the book published? +
It was published in 2009.
How many pages does the book contain? +
The book contains 327 pages.
What primary framework does the book use? +
It uses a human resource management framework supported by empirical research.
What genre does this book belong to? +
It belongs to the business and economics genre.






