Careers in HR
HR is at the heart of every successful business — helping organisations attract, retain and get the best from their people. It's a varied, rewarding career combining people skills, commercial awareness and problem-solving.
HR Job Description
HR professionals are responsible for supporting both employees and the wider business. While the role can vary significantly depending on the size and structure of an organisation, HR teams typically manage everything from recruitment and onboarding through to employee relations, performance management and professional development.
HR is a people-focused function, but it also requires strong commercial awareness. HR professionals need to understand the needs of the workforce while ensuring that people policies and practices support the wider goals of the business.
In larger organisations, HR teams may specialise in areas such as recruitment, learning and development, reward, employee relations or talent management. In smaller businesses, an HR professional may have responsibility for a much broader range of activities.
Did You Know?
HR professionals are involved throughout the entire employee journey — from attracting and recruiting new talent to supporting development, managing performance and helping create a positive workplace culture.
An HR Professional’s Core Responsibilities
Recruitment & Onboarding
Supporting the recruitment process, from creating job descriptions and advertising vacancies through to interviewing, selection and ensuring new employees have a successful introduction to the business.
Employee Relations
Supporting managers and employees with workplace issues, including absence, performance, disciplinary matters, grievances and other employee relations cases.
Learning & Development
Identifying training and development needs and helping employees build the skills and experience they need to progress within the organisation.
Performance Management
Supporting performance review processes, setting objectives and helping managers develop and retain their teams.
HR Policies & Compliance
Developing and maintaining HR policies and procedures while ensuring the organisation follows relevant employment legislation and best practice.
People & Culture
Helping to create an inclusive, engaging workplace where employees feel supported, valued and able to perform at their best.
Typical Job Titles by Level
Entry Level
Mid Level
Leadership
Key Skills Needed
Salary
Figures are indicative and vary with experience, employer and location.
Progression
HR offers a clear career pathway with opportunities to progress into increasingly senior and specialised positions. After gaining experience in HR administration or coordination, you can progress to HR Advisor and HR Business Partner roles, taking on greater responsibility for employee relations, people management and business strategy.
With further experience, you could progress into HR Manager, Senior HR Manager or Head of HR positions, managing teams and overseeing the people strategy for an organisation or business area.
There are also opportunities to specialise in areas such as Talent Acquisition, Learning & Development, Reward & Benefits, Employee Relations, Talent Management and People & Culture.
At senior level, experienced HR professionals can progress into HR Director, People Director or Chief People Officer roles, helping to shape the overall people and business strategy of an organisation.
Ready to start your career in HR?
Explore live HR roles on Fashion & Retail Personnel, or brief the team directly so we can match you to the right opportunity.