Impact of human resource policies on the integration of administrative structures in Greek universities: a comparative study

Introduction This study examines the impact of Human Resource Management (HRM) policies on the integration of administrative structures within Greek universities. The research focuses on how key HRM practices contribute to administrative cohesion, coordination, and organizational effectiveness in higher education institutions. Methods A cross-sectional survey research design was employed. Data were collected from 334 participants, including university administrators, HR professionals, and faculty members. The study investigated the relationship between administrative integration and four major HRM practices: recruitment and selection, training and development, performance appraisal, and communication and employee participation. Results The findings indicate that all four HRM practices positively and statistically significantly influence administrative integration. Among them, communication and employee participation emerged as the strongest predictors of effective coordination and collaboration within administrative systems. However, several challenges were identified, including limited diversity in recruitment procedures, insufficient access to digital training opportunities, and inconsistencies in performance appraisal and reward systems. Discussion The study highlights the importance of aligning HRM policies with institutional strategic goals in order to develop a more efficient, flexible, and integrated administrative environment within Greek universities. The findings suggest the need for modernization of recruitment procedures, enhancement of staff development initiatives, strengthening of the link between performance appraisal and reward systems, and promotion of participatory communication practices. These improvements are essential for enhancing organizational effectiveness and supporting long-term administrative integration in higher education institutions.