Paul, who is the vice president for human resources, likely works in which type of organizational structure?

The functional organizational structure is characterized by a design that groups employees based on their specialized roles or functions within the organization. In this structure, departments are created to focus on specific areas such as human resources, marketing, finance, and operations. This allows for clear lines of authority and enhances operational efficiencies, as team members can collaborate closely within their areas of expertise.

Since Paul is the vice president for human resources, it is logical that he operates within a functional structure where the human resources department is designated to manage employee-related functions, such as recruitment, training, compliance, and employee relations. This setup facilitates specialization and allows HR professionals to develop expertise in their area, ensuring that they can effectively support the organization’s strategic goals.

In contrast, the other organizational structures present different configurations. For instance, a matrix structure blends functional and divisional approaches, which could complicate the lines of authority for someone in a purely HR role. A divisional structure organizes teams around products, services, or geographical locations, which would diminish the focused expertise found in a dedicated HR department. A network structure relies on external organizations and partners to achieve goals, which would not typically include a centralized VP for HR. Thus, the functional structure is the most suitable context for Paul's role.