Strategic Conceptualization of Human Potential in the Management of the Regional Economy

The article provides a theoretical justification for human potential as an independent object of strategizing within regional economics. The concept of strategizing is presented as a methodological foundation for a systematic understanding of the role of the individual in the socio-economic development of a region. The scientific problem addressed in the study lies in clarifying the categorical status of human potential and determining its place within the system of strategic priorities of regional development.The aim. To identify the patterns in the evolution of scientific perspectives on human potential and to substantiate its strategic content within the management system of the regional economy.Methods. The study employs structural-logical and comparative analysis, the evolutionary method of economic analysis, as well as elements of institutional and system analysis. The methodological framework is based on the concept of strategizing developed by Professor V. L. Kvint, which enables the examination of human potential as a strategic-level category shaping long-term goals and directions of regional socio-economic development. The applied methods enable the interpretation of human potential not only as a theoretical category but also as an element of the regional economic management system.Results. The evolution of scientific approaches to human potential demonstrates a transition from economic and humanistic interpretations to its strategic conceptualization. Key scientific schools have been systematized, and their contributions and methodological features have been identified. It is shown that within the Russian school of strategizing, a theoretical model has been formed that incorporates the principles of goal-setting, trend-orientation, priority hierarchy and institutional integration.Conclusions. Human potential functions as a system-forming element of regional economics, determining quality of life, innovative activity and the stability of socio-economic growth. The findings provide a theoretical basis for further development of the methodology of strategizing and for the creation of tools to assess human potential within regional development. Consequently, the inclusion of human potential in the management system of the regional economy enhances the strategic capacities of the region and provides a foundation for the development of managerial decisions.