Human resources in the mixed ownership reform of Chinese ports: the mediating effects of organizational commitment

In the process of the change to mixed ownership of Chinese ports, the allocation of human resources has become increasingly important because of the workforce’s growing concerns regarding losses of benefits. The mediating effect of organizational commitment in the relationship between person-organization fit and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) can provide a significant reference for port managers and regulators, i.e., the government, regarding the framework of human resource systems. The data examined in this study were collected from three Chinese ports (Qingdao Port, Yantai Port and Rizhao Port) that are in the process of changing to mixed ownership. Structural equation modeling was applied to test the hypotheses. The results show that it is extremely difficult for groups with vested interests in Chinese ports to achieve consistency fit in the short term and to accept potential losses. Moreover, it is imperative to adopt a scientific and efficient person-organization fit mechanism and personnel system to achieve a higher level of fit.