REPLACING EXPATRIATES WITH LOCAL MANAGERS: AN EXPLORATORY INVESTIGATION INTO OBSTACLES TO LOCALIZATION IN OMAN’S PRIVATE SECTOR

Localization also Known as Omanization aims to increase the number of Omani workforce in both public and private sectors in Oman. This study aims to determine the factors perceived to hinder localization practices in Oman's private sector. The research design is exploratory research. This research adopted quantitative research methodology. The study targeted the employees working under occupation of administrators, managers, and directors in Oman's private sector. The sample size is 84 respondents selected randomly. The study found that there is a strong positive relationship between leadership orientation and manager's localization. Also, Local managers having the ability of identifying and solving the work problem with high efficiency. However, local managers are not achieving their tasks with great efficiency as well as they needs to enhance the required knowledge and skills to accomplish job objective. Furthermore, the interpersonal skills of local managers enable them to work individually or within a group. However, an enhancement required in local managers skills in understanding their subordinate and motivate them. Moreover, a significant linear relationship identified with five factors which are: Managerial Skills, Monetary compensation, Non-Monetary compensation, Workplace Culture and Interpersonal skills. The demographic variables had no predictive ability for Leadership Orientation factor. Also, there is a statistically significant relationship between specific demographic variables and obstacles to manager's localization. The study concluded by providing some recommendations in enhancing localization the occupation of administrators, managers, and directors in Oman's private sector