Transforming Dangerous Goods Transportation Safety : A Holacracy approach for a globally operating specialty chemical company’s transport safety organization

Abstract

This Master's thesis investigates the potential for transformational change within Clariant's global transport safety organization through the implementation of Holacracy, a selforganizing, non-hierarchical organizational approach. Addressing the complexities of safely and efficiently transporting dangerous goods across diverse countries and regulatory frameworks, this development-oriented research illuminates new possibilities for optimizing communication, cooperation, and accountability within Clariant's global transport safety organization. Through a robust methodology integrating document analysis, case studies, indepth interviews, and developmental workshops, the research offers nuanced insights into the dynamic interplay between organizational structure, cultural context, and transport safety management. Applying an abductive, and iterative approach to qualitative data analysis and development, the study explores emerging themes and patterns, presenting compelling evidence for the potential benefits of Holacracy in driving transformational change. The thesis contributes to the broader discourse on organizational management, transformational leadership, and transport safety, offering practical implications for Clariant and other similar organizations.