Purpose-The exploratory study investigates the human resource practices that influence employee retention, employing the case study of Albukhary International University (AIU). Design/methodology/approach-Using a non-probability sampling technique, particularly, ISSN 2162-3058 2016 convenience sampling, the researchers conducted six intensive individual depth interviews (IDIs) from the academics of AIU, Kedah, Malaysia. International Journal of Human Resource StudiesFinding -Employing content analysis of rich qualitative data, the results from the intensive IDIs led to some revelations, that in order to encourage employee retention, six recommendations should be considered; organisational strategy, career development, benefits (indirect and non-financial), convenience, organisational commitment, work experience, and fit with Job. The study also proposes that University should place emphasis on psychological contract which can directly lead to improvement in employee engagement.Implications -Several implications from the research were discussed.Value/ originality-This study is the first of its kind critically investigating the aspects of employee retention, employee engagement and psychological aspects at AIU in particular and the context of the Private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Malaysia at the larger scale. The findings trigger more research interests among the current and future scholars who might be interested in this field.

Talented employees are a source of competitive advantage for companies in today’s competitive world. Retaining them has been a challenge for most organisations. The objective of this study is to understand the challenges of retaining talented employees, by reviewing the relevant literature on talent retention. The study identifies that career growth, workplace well-being, competition within the industry, globalisation and the new employment landscape are the challenges of talent retention. This study will help organisations to understand the challenges, which will then guide them in having the right solutions to solving this issue, especially in today’s highly competitive environment and the new employment landscape.