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Case
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Reference no. 320-0096-1
Published by: Case-Study Alliance Turkey
Published in: 2020
Length: 12 pages
Data source: Generalised experience
Notes: This item is part of a free case collection. For terms & conditions go to www.thecasecentre.org/freecaseterms

Abstract

The case illustrates the complexity of implementing diversity management through an MNC's diversity project. This complexity is emphasised by the sensitivity of diversity in different contexts regarding the effects of cultural values, norms, religion, etc. By focusing on gender orientation, the case tries to open a discussion about the perceptions and judgments related to diversity. The case starts with Irmak's (Onur) arrival at Istanbul from Thailand, where she has just had a sex reassignment operation. After her annual leave, which she spent in Thailand for the operation, she returns to work, wondering about the reactions of her colleagues to her newidentity. Irmak, who is presently expecting a promotion to the position of Manager of Public Relations, works in the public relations department in ABC, which is a US-based MNC operating in Turkey. ABC launched a diversity project at the end of 2011 in its all subsidiaries, including Turkey. The company headquarters defined the main concepts of diversity management but gave the initiative to their subsidiaries to determine their diversity pillars and practices. With this project, ABC identified diversity as a strategic tool to gain competitive advantage. The project covered three basic diversity pillars: gender, cultural diversity, and generation. All subsidiaries had a diversity team and diversity leader. Although ABC's general headquarters had an inclusive approach to diversity, the management team in ABC Turkey has approached Irmak's situation with hesitancy.

Teaching and learning

This item is suitable for undergraduate, postgraduate and executive education courses.

Time period

The events covered by this case took place in 2018.

Geographical setting

Region:
Europe
Country:
Turkey
Location:
Istanbul

Featured company

ABC
Type:
Privately held

Featured protagonist

  • Irmak (female), Public Relations Manager

About

Abstract

The case illustrates the complexity of implementing diversity management through an MNC's diversity project. This complexity is emphasised by the sensitivity of diversity in different contexts regarding the effects of cultural values, norms, religion, etc. By focusing on gender orientation, the case tries to open a discussion about the perceptions and judgments related to diversity. The case starts with Irmak's (Onur) arrival at Istanbul from Thailand, where she has just had a sex reassignment operation. After her annual leave, which she spent in Thailand for the operation, she returns to work, wondering about the reactions of her colleagues to her newidentity. Irmak, who is presently expecting a promotion to the position of Manager of Public Relations, works in the public relations department in ABC, which is a US-based MNC operating in Turkey. ABC launched a diversity project at the end of 2011 in its all subsidiaries, including Turkey. The company headquarters defined the main concepts of diversity management but gave the initiative to their subsidiaries to determine their diversity pillars and practices. With this project, ABC identified diversity as a strategic tool to gain competitive advantage. The project covered three basic diversity pillars: gender, cultural diversity, and generation. All subsidiaries had a diversity team and diversity leader. Although ABC's general headquarters had an inclusive approach to diversity, the management team in ABC Turkey has approached Irmak's situation with hesitancy.

Teaching and learning

This item is suitable for undergraduate, postgraduate and executive education courses.

Settings

Time period

The events covered by this case took place in 2018.

Geographical setting

Region:
Europe
Country:
Turkey
Location:
Istanbul

Featured company

ABC
Type:
Privately held

Featured protagonist

  • Irmak (female), Public Relations Manager

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