What Is a Human Resources Manager? Duties and Job Description

What Is a Human Resources Manager? Duties and Job Description 17-Feb-2025

A Human Resources (HR) Manager is nothing less than the architect of a thriving workplace. They are the problem-solvers and strategists who keep employees engaged and happy, ensuring businesses run smoothly. Their impact is ubiquitous, from hiring the right talent to resolving workplace conflicts and shaping company policies.  

If you are envisioning taking up this role, this blog is the ideal starting point. So, read on, learn What is a Human Resources Manager and how they serve as the vital bridge between happy employees and inspiring leadership! 

Table of Content 

1. Who is a Human Resources Manager? 

2. Role of Human Resource Manager 

3. Degree Requirements for HR Manager 

4. Skills of Human Resource Management 

5. How to become a Human Resources Manager? 

6. Why Pursue a Career in Human Resources Management? 

7. Salary for Human Resources Manager 

8. Conclusion 

Who is a Human Resources Manager? 

A Human Resources (HR) Manager handles an organisation’s HR department, including recruitment, training, and employee benefits. They develop workplace culture, facilitate communication, resolve disputes, and advise on diverse policies. They also work with Executives, to optimise employee performance, and organise training to improve engagement, address any inequalities, and ensure professional growth. 

CIPD Qualification for Professionals 

Features of HR Management 

Here are the features of good HR Management: 

1. People-oriented: Focus on employee well-being and development. 

2. Development-oriented: Emphasises continuous learning and development. 

3. Decision Maker: Critical decisions regarding hiring, firing, and compensation. 

4. Ethical: HR Managers must maintain confidentiality in all situations. 

5. Effective Communicator: Clear communication is crucial for HR Managers. 

6. Adaptable: HR Managers need to be flexible. 

7. Focus on Organisational Goals: Align actions with organisation’s goals. 

Role of Human Resource Manager 

A Human Resource Manager’s key role is to oversee a company’s administrative function, including the following: 

1. Payroll and Benefits: They oversee payroll processing, ensure correct benefits are being processed, coordinate with accounting, and set up incentive programs for recruitment.  

2. Talent Recruitment: HR Managers scout candidates, coordinate their interviews, and establish onboarding processes for the new hires.  

3. Training and Development: HR Managers maintain training programs for new and existing employees and ensure proper skill development and process updates.  

4. Governance: They also ensure compliance with employment laws, manage employee relations and resolve workplace issues. They also oversee health, safety, and labour law negotiations. 

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Degree Requirements for HR Manager 

Consider the following requirements if you are planning a career as an HR Manager: 

1. A bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is typically required.  

2. Some employers prefer a master's degree in HR Management or an MBA with an HR concentration.  

3. Professional HR certifications can enhance career prospects, such as: 

4. CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice 

5. CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management 

6. CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development 

7. CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management 

Skills of Human Resource Management 

Here are the essential skills that every Human Resource Manager must have to drive organisational success: 

Required Human Resource Manager Skills 

How to Become a Human Resources Manager? 

Becoming an HR Manager opens doors to exciting career opportunities, and the following five steps can pave the way to elevate your career in HR Management. 

Step 1: Pursue Education 

1. Obtain a relevant education, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. 

2. Gain a detailed understanding of the key HR principles, including employment law, compensation, recruitment, organisational behaviour, and employee development. 

3. Develop expertise in strategic HR Management, labour relations, and HR technology to prepare for leadership roles. 

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Step 2: Gain Experience 

1. Start your job search with entry-level roles such as HR Specialist, HR Generalist, or HR Coordinator. 

2. These positions typically focus on soft skills rather than extensive experience. 

3. Gain experience and showcase your skills in junior roles to build a strong foundation for career advancement. 

4. Demonstrate proficiency in various HR functions to position yourself as a strong candidate for an HR Manager role. 

Step 3: Build Expertise 

1. Explore specialised HR roles that are in line with your career growth goals. 

2. Evaluate your current skills and locate any gaps that may hamper your progress toward becoming an HR Manager. 

3. Look for opportunities, jobs, or tasks that can help you develop the necessary skills and experience. 

4. Consider roles in areas such as Organisational Development or HR Project Management to elevate your expertise. 

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Human Resources Origin 

Step 4: Obtain Certifications 

1. HR certifications validate your knowledge and expertise. They prove your proficiency in HR practices and principles. 

2. Certifications can heighten your credibility and marketability and set you apart in a competitive job market. 

3. These certifications spotlight your commitment to professional development and continuous learning. 

4. Many certifications require ongoing education. This keeps you updated with the latest HR trends, regulations, and best practices. 

5. Staying certified ensures that you can provide valuable guidance to your organisation. 

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Step 5: Demonstrate Leadership 

1. Strong management and leadership skills can help you advance to an HR Manager role, as it involves leading a team of specialists. 

2. Building strong relationships and resolving conflicts within teams and across the organisation is a big responsibility. 

3. Taking the lead on HR initiatives helps showcase your leadership and problem-solving abilities. 

4. Mentoring junior HR professionals can further showcase your leadership skills by sharing knowledge and supporting career development. 

5. Supervisory responsibilities, such as managing a team or overseeing HR processes, further highlight managerial capabilities. 

AI and Predictive Analytics in HR 

Why Pursue a Career in Human Resources Management? 

Human Resources Management is a role that spans industries, with every workplace needing an HR department. Pursuing a career in HR Management offers a dynamic and rewarding path for those who enjoy working with people. It also offers job stability, as every organisation relies on HR professionals to manage its workforce effectively. 

Salary for Human Resources Manager 

Here’s a breakdown of the average annual salary for a HR Manager across three major regions: The UK, USA and India: 

HR Manager Average Annual salary 

Remember, the salary can vary, depending on factors such as years of experience, location, education, certifications, and the size of the company. 

Conclusion 

Understanding What is a Human Resources Manager is acknowledging the fact that they are the backbone of any organisation who ensure smooth operations, employee satisfaction, and strategic Workforce Management. Beyond hiring, their role is to shape company culture, resolve conflicts, and drive business success. 

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