In the pursuit of sustainability, the adoption of circular strategies and closed-loop production and consumption cycles (e.g., reduce, reuse, recycle, recover, redesign, remanufacture) has been actively promoted within the manufacturing sector. Numerous frameworks and practices have emerged to support manufacturers and their value networks in implementing circular startegies, processes, and business models to extend the lifespan of products and eliminate waste.

However, limited attention has been given to the “human side” of this transition. Specifically, even though it has been highlighted that circular manufacturing requires new skills and the lack of competencies is often cited as a key barrier, only a few studies have delved into the topic.

To contribute to fill this gap and support interested stakeholders in progressing towards circular manufacturing, the thesis aims to answer the following research questions: What competencies are needed by industrial companies for the transition to and implementation of circular manufacturing startegies? How can they be assessed and developed? What people management practices are companies implementing to support circular staretgies?