JOB PROFILE
What Is a Head of HR?
IN THIS JOB PROFILE
You Will Learn.
- What is a Head of HR?
- What are the responsibilities of a Head of HR?
- What qualifications does a Head of HR need?
- What is the average salary of a Head of HR?
- Who employs a Head of HR?
- What skills does a Head of HR need?
- Where the latest Head of HR jobs are and how to apply for them.
What Is a Head of HR?
A Head of HR is a senior-level professional responsible for leading the human resources function within an organisation. They oversee the development and implementation of HR strategies and policies that support the overall business objectives and promote a positive work culture.
Head of HR roles involve managing various HR functions, including talent acquisition, employee development, performance management, and employee relations.
What Are the Responsibilities of a Head of HR?
The responsibilities of a Head of HR include developing and implementing HR strategies that align with the company's objectives and promote a positive work environment. Head of HR roles involve overseeing talent acquisition and retention efforts, ensuring the organisation attracts and retains top talent.
They also manage employee development programs, performance management systems, and employee relations, fostering a culture of professional growth and maintaining high employee morale.
Additionally, they are responsible for ensuring compliance with employment laws and regulations, managing employee benefits, and handling complex HR issues.
While working as a Head of HR, you will be required to:
- Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with company objectives.
- Oversee talent acquisition and retention efforts to attract and retain top talent.
- Manage employee development programs and performance management systems.
- Cultivate a positive work culture and foster employee engagement and morale.
- Ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations and manage employee benefits.
- Handle complex HR issues and employee relations matters.
- Provide guidance on organisational development, change management, and workforce planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Qualifications Does a Head of HR Need?
A Head of HR typically requires a relevant bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, often complemented by a Master's in Human Resource Management (HRM) or an MBA.
Professional certifications from recognised bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) or the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) are highly advantageous.
What Is the Average Salary of a Head of HR?
The average salary of a Head of HR in the UK is around £91,000.
However, it is important to note that this figure can vary depending on factors including the location of the role, a person's level of expertise and the company in question.
Who Employs a Head of HR?
Head of HR jobs are found in large corporations, multinational companies, and medium to large-scale enterprises across diverse industries in the UK.
Additionally, consulting firms specialising in HR services often seek Head of HR professionals to lead and manage their internal HR functions and provide strategic guidance to clients.
What Skills Does a Head of HR Need?
A competent Head of HR requires strong leadership and management skills to provide strategic direction and foster a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are vital for building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders, including senior management, employees, and external partners.
Analytical skills and business acumen are crucial for understanding complex organisational dynamics and aligning HR strategies with the company's goals and objectives.
In-depth knowledge of employment law, industry regulations, and best practices is necessary to ensure legal compliance and mitigate potential risks.
Key skills of a Head of HR include:
- Strong leadership and management skills for providing strategic direction and fostering a high-performing work environment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders.
- Analytical skills and business acumen for aligning HR strategies with organisational goals.
- In-depth knowledge of employment law and industry regulations for ensuring legal compliance.
- Adaptability to dynamic business environments and effective change management.
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities for addressing workforce challenges and driving successful HR initiatives.
- Empathy and diplomacy for handling sensitive employee issues and fostering a positive workplace culture.
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