Mapping knowledge frontiers: a bibliometric analysis of Industry 4.0, circular economy and human resource management

PurposeThis study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research trends at the intersection of Industry 4.0, circular economy, and human resource management (HRM).Design/methodology/approachThis study analyzes 693 documents from 2019 to 2024 using a bibliometric approach, including performance, citation, keyword co-occurrence, thematic mapping and trend topic analysis, highlighting a sharp rise in research driven by digital transformation and sustainability.FindingsWe demonstrate that Industry 4.0 and circular economy practices are well-established, while HRM's role in supporting them is emerging. The role of HRM practices like digital skills, green HRM, and leadership in enabling sustainability is underexplored. The analysis highlights gaps in workforce development for digital and sustainable transformations and the importance of global collaboration.Practical implicationsTheoretically, the study integrates HRM into Industry 4.0 and Circular Economy frameworks; practically, it guides organizations, policymakers and educators in developing workforce competencies, green HRM practices and leadership skills for sustainable digital transformation.Originality/valueThis is the first comprehensive bibliometric analysis integrating Industry 4.0, Circular Economy and HRM. Unlike earlier work focused on technology or operations, it highlights HRM's emerging role in digital and sustainable transformation. The study offers an integrated roadmap for future interdisciplinary research connecting technology, sustainability and human capital development.