Talent Retention for Succession Planning in the Defence Forces

Retaining a talented workforce in any sector is crucial to gaining growth in this competitive environment. Defence is no exception, especially in the current geopolitical environment. Trained military officers in the security sector are crucial, and hence, succession planning is a priority for both developed and emerging economies. Based on Zinger's talent-based theory, this is a qualitative study employing the phenomenological approach with case study design. The sampling technique was purposive sampling, and through semi-structured interviews, data was collected from 20 senior officers from the rank of major and above working at different directorates. Findings reveal that talent retention improved succession planning through ensuring self-sustenance and competitive advantage by building a pool of experts as successors who are also motivated and empowered with a sense of belonging. Recommendations include a relook at the organizational culture and structural posting with a focus not only on years of serving but also on the skills and knowledge of the individual.