MANAGEMENT OF ENTERPRISE HUMAN RESOURCES IN THE CONTEXT OF A SHORTAGE OF SKILLED LABOUR

Abstract

The article explores the theoretical and applied aspects of human resource management under conditions of an acute labor shortage in Ukraine at the end of 2025. The relevance of the study is determined by a persistent contraction of labor supply resulting from long-term demographic decline, accelerated population aging, large-scale war-induced migration, and the growing imbalance between labor market demand and available competencies. The research emphasizes that labor scarcity has evolved from a cyclical phenomenon into a structural constraint that directly affects enterprise competitiveness, productivity, and economic resilience. Using a systematic and interdisciplinary approach, including classification, structural-logical analysis, and comparative assessment of international and national practices, the authors identify key drivers of workforce shortages and evaluate their economic implications at the firm level. Particular attention is devoted to the phenomena of “brain drain” and qualitative labor depletion, manifested in the coexistence of an oversupply of higher education graduates and a critical shortage – exceeding 70 percent – in skilled vocational and technical occupations. This mismatch significantly limits the capacity of enterprises to scale operations and adopt innovative technologies. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the development of a strategic adaptation matrix for enterprises, which integrates technological labor substitution tools, such as automation and robotic process automation, with proactive internal reproduction of competencies through «hiring for potential», reskilling, and life-long learning models. The research demonstrates a paradigm shift in human resource management from reliance on external recruitment toward internal talent development, employee retention, and competency accumulation. The institutional dimension of labor shortage mitigation is also examined, with a focus on labor market liberalization, de-shadowing of employment relations, and the reform of the Labor Code of Ukraine. The practical value of the findings consists in formulating applied recommendations for enterprises, including the implementation of flexible employment formats, hybrid and project-based work arrangements, employer branding strategies, and social inclusion instruments aimed at veteran and displaced persons’ reintegration. These measures are identified as critical for sustaining operational efficiency and supporting the long-term recovery and modernization of Ukraine’s economy.