Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Klaudija RIAUKE
Author-Name-First: Klaudija
Author-Name-Last: RIAUKE
Author-Email: klaudijariauke@gmail.com
Author-Workplace-Name: Vilnius University
Title: Process Improvement Contribution to Career Advancement: Evidence from Managerial Perspectives in Fintech
Abstract: Purpose – The concept of a career has shifted significantly over recent decades, with traditional, linear paths based on tenure and hierarchy increasingly replaced by more flexible and dynamic trajectories. Although holistic management philosophies have emphasized employees’ role in contributing to process improvement, the extent to which such contributions influence career advancement remains a question. Prior research has not clearly established how participation in process improvement is evaluated, recognized, and rewarded in promotion decisions, particularly from a managerial perspective. Aim(s) – The aim of this paper is to explore how managers interpret and evaluate employee involvement in process improvement and how these interpretations shape career advancement decisions. It examines how organizations perceive and assess such involvement when making advancement decisions and identifies additional factors that shape this relationship. Design/methodology/approach – This paper adopts a qualitative research design based on semi-structured interviews with 15 managers in the Lithuanian fintech sector. Data was collected using pre-prepared interview guides and analyzed through thematic analysis, including coding, categorization, and interpretation, moving to a structured conceptual framework Limitations of the paper – Although internal motivation is a key factor influencing employee participation in process improvement, it is not examined in depth in this paper. The focus on managerial perspectives was intentional, as career advancement decisions are largely shaped by managerial evaluation and interpretation. Practical implications – The findings suggest that organizations should pay closer attention to how employee involvement in process improvement is identified, assessed, and rewarded. Managerial awareness and organizational culture play a significant role in determining whether improvement efforts translate into career advancement. This paper highlights the need for greater alignment between managerial practices, recognition mechanisms, and career systems. Building on theoretical foundation, the qualitative findings were grouped and conceptual framework developed. Originality/value – The novelty of this paper lies in examining the relationship between process improvement and career advancement, which has been addressed only fragmentarily in prior research. By adopting an organizational and managerial perspective, the paper provides empirical insight into how managers interpret employee involvement in process improvement and how these interpretations shape career advancement decisions. 
Classification-JEL: J24, M14, M51
Keywords: Employee Contribution, Process Improvement, Career Advancement, Managerial Perspective, Qualitative Research, Fintech Sector
Journal: Journal of Human Resource Management
Pages: 61-74
Volume: 29
Issue: 1
Year: 2026
File-URL: https://www.jhrm.eu/61-process-improvement-contribution-to-career-advancement-evidence-from-managerial-perspectives-in-fintech/
File-Format: Application/pdf
Handle: RePEc:cub:journl:v:29:y:2026:i:1:p:61-74