Contemporary Issues of Business and Management: The Proceedings of the \(10^{th}\) International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD), Edition 1

This chapter, “Performance Management Perceptions in South African Higher Education: Exploring Organisational and Socio-economic Influences,” examines the complexities of performance management within the security sector of a South African tertiary institution. Situated against the backdrop of persistent socio-economic inequalities and the enduring legacy of apartheid, this paper critically analyses how organisational and contextual factors shape managerial perceptions and practices in the field of performance management. Drawing on qualitative insights the research offers a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities of performance management in culturally and economically diverse settings. The chapter further elucidates and integrates theories of organisational culture, social constructivism, and phenomenology, contributing to a deeper understanding of how historical, cultural, and socio-economic dynamics influence human resource management practice amidst rapid industrialisation in developing countries. Research findings aim to inspire actionable strategies, advocating for inclusive and equitable performance management systems in South Africa and developing countries. This chapter is dedicated to fostering sustainable development and equitable growth through improved leadership, HRM and organisational practices with the intention of enriching discourse on contextualised performance management and its role in addressing global inequalities.