The ‘future of work’ has emerged as a significant focus of academic, policymaker and public interest. This chapter reviews key developments in the literature and sets out a research agenda to advance our understanding of this diverse field. It begins by exploring the origins of discourse on...

This chapter focuses on sustainability and human-centred human resource management (HRM). Human-centred HRM is a normative approach that argues that economic, technological, social and ecological challenges and opportunities should be worked on for the benefit of a large variety of stakeholders,...

How can intersectionality support the advancement of theoretical and empirical discussions in the field of work and employment? This chapter discusses the use and usefulness of intersectionality to advance research work that focuses on inequalities in work and employment. The chapter identifies...

This chapter introduces key concepts, debates and research agendas in comparative employment relations (ER). The chapter discusses factors that are discussed that shape ER systems as well as similarities and differences in systems, across countries. It summarises theories that focus on...

This chapter presents an overview of employee voice, defined as having a say at work. It begins by tracing the evolution, meaning and thematic focus of employee voice research and the changing voice landscape. It then outlines key themes for a future research agenda. The chapter shows that: (1)...

We have seen a remarkable uptick in the visibility of trade unions and industrial action, but in a context of significantly reduced power and influence of unions across the UK economy. This chapter explores some of the reasons why unions have declined, including the changing nature of...

This chapter discusses characteristics, large-scale transformations - such as New Public Management reforms - and specific themes related to public-sector work and employment. The latter include employment patterns; pay; training and development; workforce representation; new ways of working;...

‘Industry 4.0’ is a term referring to the digital transformation of manufacturing, something that is strongly advocated by a variety of governments and regional bodies. In this chapter, we are concerned with how Industry 4.0 may be affecting the quality of work. So far, many academic...

The gig economy has quickly become a disruptive force in the global labour market. Referring to work forms that are mediated via digital platforms, this new economy utilises technology to connect freelance workers with customers to perform short-term tasks. The chapter begins by discussing the...

The increasing polarisation of the UK labour market means that work for many is marked by low-pay, irregular and variable working hours, with limited employment protections. This chapter contextualises contemporary precarious work and explores some of the deep-rooted causes. We critically...