Written by Colin McEvoy | July 11, 2025 | SHARE
Two Iacocca Institute Executive Fellows have co-authored a groundbreaking new book that redefines human resource management through a systems-thinking lens
Two Executive Fellows at Lehigh University’s Iacocca Institute have co-authored a new book that reimagines human resource management through a systems-thinking lens.
Regina Tendayi and Larry Starr have co-authored Systemic Human Resource Management: A Holistic Approach to Navigate Complexity. Available now in digital form, the print version is expected to be released in early August.
The book offers a fresh approach to human resource management (HRM) by applying principles of complexity, systems thinking, and design thinking to today’s rapidly changing business environment.
"Having worked within the HRM space for more than two decades, and learning systems thinking and design thinking for the first time during my doctoral degree studies, it was an aha moment for me to realize the mismatch between traditional HRM methodologies, tools, approaches and, frameworks, and the prevailing business operational context," Tendayi said.
"I found the answer to why the HRM value-added to problem-solving and decision-making continued to decline, and that is because it was using models formulated for stable contexts, and not the disruptive contexts faced by companies worldwide," she said.
The book explores alternative HRM methodologies, tools, and frameworks tailored to volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous, and hyperconnected (VUCAH) contexts. Introducing the concept of Systemic Human Resource Management, the book presents holistic strategies for problem-solving and decision-making that align with the demands of modern organizations navigating disruption and change.
“HRM professionals know they are facing unprecedented turbulence from economic, political, social, environmental and technological crises,” Starr said. “But they have been limited by only applying conventional HRM methods and tools to address them. SysHRM for the first time describes how HRM leaders and managers can reformulate, rethink, and apply new methodologies to effectively navigate these challenges.”
Tendayi, the book’s senior author, was previously a student of Starr’s at Thomas Jefferson University, where Tendayi received her Doctorate in Strategic Leadership. Starr previously designed and directed dual doctorate programs in strategic and complex systems leadership at TJU, where he is still an adjunct professor at the School of Business.
Tendayi is Director, Strategic Talent Partner at Bayada Home Health Care. She is a trusted human resources executive with extensive experience gained while working for multinational, global, billion-dollar organizations in Africa before relocating to the U.S. in 2019. Bayada is the largest home healthcare organization in the country.
Tendayi previously wrote, My Boss, the Bully: A Chilling Revelation into Corporate Human Resources Management, where she exposes HR leadership malpractices and proffers solutions to leaders; and HANDS OFF! Avoiding Sexual Harassment in the Workplace, that reveals deeply ingrained sexual harassment practices that bedevil the workplace.
Starr is Adjunct Assistant Professor of Pharmacy Systems Science at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine and Director of Applied Research for the Iacocca Institute. For more than 40 years, he has been a learning facilitator, global consultant, and researcher, helping individuals and organizations formulate, solve, and navigate complex problems.
Starr also previously wrote Strategic and Complex Systems Leadership Theory and Practice: The World’s Only Dual Doctorate in Leadership. That book explores frameworks for strategic leadership, complex systems thinking, and the impact of major global disruptions. It includes a chapter co-authored by Iacocca Institute Executive Director Scott Koerwer.
“The new Systemic Human Resource Management book exemplifies the kind of thought leadership we seek from our Executive Fellows—integrating global experience, academic rigor, and practical solutions,” Koerwer said. “Regina and Larry’s work helps prepare leaders to navigate complexity with clarity and purpose.”
Tendayi and Starr are Iacocca Institute Executive Fellows, a group of business professionals, higher education officials, and multidisciplinary experts throughout the nation and world who share their insights on leadership and global developments.
Launched in July 2024, the Executive Fellows foster a rich exchange of diverse perspectives that will enhance cultural competency and global awareness among the Iacocca Institute community. This supports the Institute’s learners, alumni, and extended network to develop a nuanced understanding of global affairs and operate effectively in a connected world.
Visit here for a list of current Executive Fellows, which includes representatives from companies and organizations such as AACOM, AAMC, Evolution Advisors, Iberia, Kerning Strategies, Muhlenberg College, PBJ People Consulting & Coaching, Stanton Chase, Three Hills Capital, and Think Creative.
By regularly providing insights into emerging trends and best practices from various industries, the Iacocca Institute Executive Fellows network creates a forum that enables rapid dissemination of new knowledge and the cross-pollination of ideas that encourage innovative solutions to complex problems across different contexts.