AOM 2026 Panel Symposium
The Role of Human Resource Management in Virtual Work
Organizer: Tobias Blay (University of Goettingen)
Scheduling Info: Monday, August 03, 2026 | 4:45 PM – 6:15pm ET | Sheraton, Salon 8
OVERVIEW
This panel symposium brings together leading voices to explore the changes organizations face as they shift from on-site to virtual and hybrid work models. Although virtual work offers flexibility and access to global talent, current debates around return-to-office mandates and hybrid work show that many organizations still struggle to make these models effective and sustainable.
Our focus is to address the role of Human Resource Management (HRM) in virtual work for five interrelated key areas: (1) altered employment relationships, (2) flexible work hours, (3) flexible work locations, (4) global dimensions of virtual work, and (5) technology.
By integrating theoretical and empirical insights, this session serves as a foundational reference for scholars studying the future of HRM.
PANELISTS
The panel is comprised of distinguished scholars with extensive research and editorial expertise in HRM and virtual work:
· Tammy D. Allen (University of South Florida)
· Bradford S. Bell (Cornell University)
· Sumita Raghuram (San Jose State University)
· Chris Forde (University of Leeds)
· Fabian J. Froese (University of Goettingen & Yonsei University)
STRUCTURE
Part 1: Introduction and Expert Overviews: Following an introduction by the organizer, each panelist will provide a brief, high-level overview of one of the five key areas of virtual work, drawing on their research.
Part 2: Moderated Panel and Open Floor Discussion: The session will transition into a moderated discussion, followed by a open floor Q&A where attendees are encouraged to share comments and pose questions to the panel.
This Panel Symposium is open to all AOM attendees and does not require advance registration. We invite all scholars interested in the intersection of HRM, OB, technology, and the future of work to join us for this interactive session.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to the organizer, Tobias Blay (tobias.blay@uni-goettingen.de).
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Tobias Blay
Assistant Professor
University of Goettingen, Germany
tobiasblay.com
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