Human resource manager or director - overview

What does a human resource manager or director do?

As a human resource (HR) manager or director, you’ll look after a company’s HR department. You could have several tasks depending on the size of the organisation. This could include overseeing employee performance, advocating for positive change in a company, ensuring policies and laws are kept to and advising on how resources are used.

It can be a challenging job as you’ll be looking after people’s happiness in the workplace. You may have to communicate difficult news, such as the termination of contracts.

But if you’re interested in how humans work and how this affects business performance, becoming an HR manager or director could be for you. You could earn a good salary, look after employees’ best interests and have an impact on company culture.

What will your days involve?

Daily tasks will vary but could involve:

• Considering different ways of working to improve productivity
• Examining company structures and the efficiency of operations
• Developing policies for salary, promotion and health and safety
• Overseeing employee performance and career development
• Organising or providing training courses for employees
• Managing the hiring process by preparing job descriptions, advertising vacancies and interviewing candidates

FAQs

How much can you earn as a human resource manager or director?

The average salary for a human resource manager or director in the UK is £53,040. Graduates start at around £30,500.

Does a human resource manager or director role involve travel in the UK or overseas?

People in these roles will probably have to travel if the organisation they work for has multiple locations. Whether it’s UK-based or overseas, travel depends on the organisation.

Can you work from home as a human resource manager or director?

You’ll usually find some work from home opportunities in these roles.