Axpo Trading AG, a subsidiary of the Axpo Group, is currently establishing a new international subsidiary and the tendency for the future to enter new foreign markets by setting up new subsidiaries is continuously growing. The successful entry into new markets requires a high involvement of Human Resources during the entire internationalizations process.

This thesis starts with the theoretical framework as an introduction into the internationalization process by explaining the Uppsala Model of internationalization. Additional considerable factors from a Human Resources perspective during an internationalization process are also included in the theoretical part. Subsequently, the Axpo Group as well as the current role, function and structure of Axpo’s Human Resources during the internationalization processes is explained in order to understand the status quo. After that, interviews conducted with people who own experience or expertise in internationalization processes are analyzed in order to identify the required involvement of Human Resources during internationalization processes. After the analysis of the interview outcomes, recommendations for further internationalization processes is established in form of an internationalization process plan from a Human Resources perspective.

This thesis shows that an early involvement of Human Resources during the internationalization process is crucial for the successful establishment of a new international subsidiary. Furthermore, the analysis of this thesis confirms the theory the Uppsala Model of Internationalization and demonstrates that knowledge of the entering market is essential for a successful internationalization process. Also, the future stability and grow of a new international subsidiary is affected by the involvement of Human resources. A Human Resources Project Manager shall have the responsibility for coordination and management of Human Resources Business Activities during the entire internationalization process. For future internationalization processes, the internationalization process plan can be used for the detailed planning of the Human Resources responsibilities, tasks and functions.