Management Training as a Source of Competitive Advantage in the Financial Services SMEs in Greece

Abstract

This thesis attempts to focus on the management training philosophy and practices which underpins the Greek Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) which operate in the financial services sector (stock market). The aforementioned research area is considered a fruitful one in Greece given that limited research on the topic exists.

Small and Medium Enterprises constitute the backbone of the European Union (EU) and the Greek economy (the European Union has over 17 million SMEs which cover about 75% of its employment, and accounts for 50% of the investment that takes place and 60% of EU‟s wealth” http://europa.eu.int) and therefore it would be interesting and useful to examine the various training strategies implemented in order to gain competitive advantage, especially in turbulent times, taking into consideration the wider global economic crisis (2007 – 2014). It is suggested that every competitor struggles to “outplay” the others and obtain the competitive advantage which will ultimately increase profit and / or market share. Training, according to Burke 2011, Tanova and Nadiri 2005, and Boxall and Purcell 2003, is an avenue used for reaching competitive advantage. Thus, this thesis will attempt to examine the training & development practices performed in the Greek market and specifically SMEs in the financial sector exploring in extent the potential of management training at supporting the companies at their endeavor during this tough economic period for the country and their business.

Date of Award	2014
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Coventry University