Examining Some Succession Planning Components Based on High-Performance Work System in the National Iranian Oil Company

Given that succession planning is a smart talent management strategy that can help retain talent within an organization, this study aimed to investigate some key components of succession planning based on a high-performance work system in the National Iranian Oil Company during the year 2022. This research is developmental in purpose and employs a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data. The components examined were derived from 32 articles relevant to the research topic and expert consultations using the Delphi method. Subsequently, a questionnaire—validated by both organizational and academic experts—was used to assess the alignment of identified components with empirical findings through statistical techniques. The statistical population for the Delphi phase consisted of organizational experts and specialists, university faculty members, managers of state-owned enterprises, and managers within the National Iranian Oil Company. Data were collected using a questionnaire; the initial expert questionnaire contained 89 items and was distributed in two rounds to a panel of 20 specialists after being approved by the academic supervisor and advisor. To ensure the accuracy of the findings, content validity was employed, and reliability was assessed using the Kappa coefficient. Each item was rated on a 5-point Likert scale: Strongly Agree (5), Agree (4), Neutral (3), Disagree (2), and Strongly Disagree (1). Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics via SPSS version 26. Based on the findings, structural-contextual factors were identified, including indicators such as organizational structure, human resource management, stakeholders, policies and regulations, and competitive advantage. Therefore, it can be concluded that succession planning is implemented for the organization’s strategic roles, and that critical and key positions typically comprise about 20 percent of the organization’s jobs.