PhD Defence Rhee van Henk

Abstract

This dissertation explores how companies can align economic performance (such as profitability and productivity) with social performance (such as employee well-being), focusing on workplace measures and the effects of governmental deregulation. While these goals are often seen as conflicting, societal expectations and frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals call for their integration.

Through longitudinal research and a randomized controlled trial, the study finds that workplace measures aimed at improving economic performance often produce positive "spillover" effects on social outcomes. In contrast, measures primarily intended to enhance social performance do not yield notable benefits. This suggests that supporting economically motivated initiatives may be a more effective path to improving both types of performance—especially in sectors like the Dutch metal industry.

The dissertation also examines occupational health and safety (OHS) deregulation. A systematic literature review and an RCT show that the deterrent effect of preventive inspections is minimal in many cases, implying that deregulation can be done safely for most companies. However, for firms lacking intrinsic motivation to care for employee well-being, targeted regulation—with high inspection probabilities and meaningful penalties—remains necessary.

Methodologically, the study contributes to management and policy research through its use of a large-scale, longitudinal design, repeated measurements, Bayesian analysis, and robustness checks including Necessary Condition Analysis. It combines empirical rigor with innovative measurement strategies, offering both theoretical insights and practical guidance for company leaders and policymakers.