Private equity and human resource management: An emerging agenda

In this article we define and explain private equity, with particular emphasis on the heterogeneity of the phenomenon. We consider different theoretical perspectives of relevance to the study of private equity buyouts. In particular, we distinguish between approaches that take a zero-sum perspective (rational choice and financialization perspectives) and those with a more nuanced, complementary viewpoint (heterodox institutional and theories of action and structure perspectives). We discuss private equity in historical perspective. We then summarize the articles in this special section. Finally, we identify an agenda for further research that focuses upon employee relations and human resource aspects of private equity buyouts.