What does a human resource manager do?

Whether you’re considering a human resource management career or are simply curious as to the workings of this role within companies, this blog post explains everything you need to know about this job.

Human Resource Management definition 

Before learning about what a Human Resource Manager does and their significance within organisations, it’s important to understand what Human Resources is as a business function, and the definition of Human Resource Management. 
 
Human Resource Management (HRM) is the practice of managing an organisation's workforce to achieve its goals and objectives; this not only includes the management and development of the organisation’s people, but the culture and legal compliance around these employees, too.

Human Resource Management: What does the role entail? 

A Human Resource Manager’s role is extremely varied and can differ depending on the size of the company and sector it sits in. However, ultimately Human Resource Management covers the management, support and development of the companies most valuable asset – its workforce.

Key responsibilities of a Human Resource Manager 

Some of the key responsibilities of a Human Resource Manager include: 

Recruitment and talent acquisition

Human Resource Managers are responsible for not just recruiting, but the recruitment of the right sort of people to meet business needs and aims. Typically, they oversee the whole hiring process; from posting job adverts or speaking to recruiters, to reviewing CVs, arranging interviews and sorting contracts. 

Compensation and benefits admin

The Human Resources Management team are responsible for developing compensation and benefits within the business. This important work includes salaries and pay reviews, as well as bonuses, incentives, health benefit schemes and even pension providers. 

Employee onboarding, orientation and performance

Once the hiring is done, Human Resource Managers ensure that new employees are smoothly integrated into the business (including inductions into company policies and ways of working) and their new team, often with frequent check-ins during early days.

Once the employee is established, a Human Resources Manager may also be involved with discussions with senior members of the team to evaluate performance and develop improvement plans where appropriate. 

Employee relations

Human Resource Managers often handle employee conflicts, disciplinary matters and grievances, as well as the more light-hearted side of business such as social events. They can also act as an important bridge between employees and management, working to resolve any issues individuals can’t themselves. 

Training and development

Human Resource Managers are often partly responsible for identifying training needs within the business and coordinating the implementation of training sessions to enhance skills and capabilities of the employees. 

Legal compliance

Employment laws and regulations can be complex and are ever-changing, so it is the Human Resource Manager’s role to keep up to date with policy changes, laws and regulations. These could relate to the likes of workplace health and safety laws, for example. 

Policy development

Policies such as equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion, workplace conduct and mental health matters must align with the business’ goals and values, which is why they are usually developed in-house by the Human Resources Management team. 

Employee engagement

Human Resources Managers have a responsibility to bolster a positive work culture for all employees and enhance their experience with the company. This will vary from industry to industry, and business to business, but can include social events, activities and initiatives. 

Human Resource Management jobs 

As you’ll have discovered from reading this post, in a human resource management job, no two days are the same. Human resource management jobs are extremely fulfilling, as you’ll be responsible for shaping the future of your organisation and the happiness and wellbeing of its workforce.

You’ll work towards a harmonious workplace, where talent is nurtured and business growth occurs through the empowerment of its people.

How much does a Human Resource Manager make? 

The expected salary for a Human Resource Manager varies across industries and locations. According to Prospects.ac.uk, a Human Resource Manager can expect to earn between £15,000 and £18,000 a year to start, but by gaining in experience and studying towards further CIPD qualifications, this can rise significantly.

For instance, an HR manager can earn on average £46,000 a year, with HR directors brining in over £80,000.  

Human Resource Management courses 

If a Human Resource Manager job sounds like something you’d like to explore, gain the skills and knowledge you’ll need to succeed with an MSc in Human Resource Management. 
 
Discover the benefits of choosing to study a Human Resource Management Course over on our course page. This two-year course is part-time and fully online, meaning you can fit your Human Resource Management training around your other commitments to strike the perfect work-life balance: