A Policymaking Framework for Managing the Adaptation Process in Corporate Headquarters with Internal Growth

The organization of Corporate headquarters (CHQ), as the commanding brain in multi- business companies, is in a state of flux and adapts to external environment changes dynamically. The optimal management of its organizational dynamicity can profoundly impact productivity. Yet, close inspection of the existing literature indicates lack of a framework for managing organizational changes in CHQs. Hence, the purpose of this qualitative single case study is to bridge the gap and introduce a framework for managing the adaptation process in the CHQs. Initially, a specific and applied definition was offered for CHQ based on meticulous review of the related literature. Further, the construct was operationalized in the form of a questionnaire which was administered in one of petrochemical multi-business companies to serve the purpose of the study. The research data gleaned through open interview and studying related documents were submitted to thematic analysis. The findings underscored the CHQ’s environmental requirements, fundamental changes, orienting elements, parenting and managerial style and the maturity curve as the most significant factors influencing the policymaking of the adaptation process. Challenges related to each of the factors and the ways of handling them are discussed and a framework is offered for managing the adaptation process in CHQs.