James Fox, who is studying for a masters degree in strategic human resources management (HRM) at Nottingham Business School has scooped this year’s award for the best dissertation.
Fox received the award along with a cheque from local sponsor MidlandHR, the Nottingham-based HR, payroll and talent management specialist. The presentation ceremony took on a Hollywood-style feel as Aberdeen-based winner James was unable to attend in person – and accepted his award via conference call. His winning dissertation focused on the concept of partnership within Scottish local authorities, and how that model has been affected by the implementation of the Single Status Agreement in 1997.
Dr Anne Sempik, principal lecturer and programme leader at Nottingham Business School, comments: “James clearly understood both the academic and practical requirements of the dissertation. His project was well thought out and cleverly executed, with a particularly strong research base. There were many good dissertations this year but James’ work stood out.”
For the past seven years MidlandHR has sponsored the award, which recognises outstanding dissertations from the strategic human resources management MSc course. Presenting the prize, MidlandHR’s software director Andy Bray commented: “The dissertation subject of partnership is fitting because this theme is at the heart of MidlandHR’s work with all of its clients. We believe that this bilateral approach creates projects which offer proven return on investment, and as James rightly points out, trust and mutuality are absolutely key to achieving these goals.
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“The high standard of this year’s dissertations proves that academic study of human resources is alive and well at Nottingham Business School, and MidlandHR looks forward to continuing to support this prestigious course. Through this ongoing partnership with Nottingham Trent’s Nottingham Business School we hope to be able to safeguard the sustainable development of the industry for years to come.”
