Management strategies in transitional economies : Organisational restructuring and employment relations (ER) at Český Telecom

Purpose – To provide an analysis of the privatisation of the Czech Republic's former state‐owned telecommunications monopoly, Český Telecom, in relation to governance, organisational restructuring and strategic human resource management (SHRM) practices. Design/methodology/approach – This research project used a qualitative approach that supported an in‐depth case study analysis. This included semi‐structured interviews that were conducted across a broad range of stakeholders associated with the Czech telecommunications sector. SHRM and downsizing theories were used to assist in the analysis of this data. Findings – The paper finds that management strategies at Český Telecom exhibited some similarities with those of Western TelCos facing similar deregulation issues. However, these processes were tempered by country‐specific historical and institutional factors, including the relatively weak institutional structures and mechanisms found in Eastern Europe. Research limitations/implications – A qualitative analysis concentrating on one case study lessens the universal applicability of the findings. Practical implications – A useful source of information for academic researchers and HRM practitioners who wish to conduct research and/or manage workers in the Czech Republic. Originality/value – Provides an original case study analysis within an important strategic sector that has undergone large‐scale change: the telecommunications sector of Eastern Europe.