Elton Mayo was an influential Australian psychologist and organizational theorist, best known for his role in the development of the Human Relations Movement. His work at the Hawthorne Works in the 1920s and 1930s highlighted the importance of social relations and employee morale in the workplace, demonstrating that workers' productivity is significantly affected by their social environment.
Mayo's research emphasized the need for management to consider the psychological and social aspects of work, leading to a greater focus on employee welfare and motivation. His findings laid the groundwork for modern organizational behavior and management practices, making him a pivotal figure in the field.