The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Change & Culture Coordinator / Junior Specialist
2-3 yearsSkills to master
- Mastering basic project coordination, drafting clear internal communications, supporting workshop logistics, and pulling initial data reports from engagement platforms. Understanding the 'why' behind change initiatives.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently delivers tasks on time and to a high standard.
- Proactively identifies minor issues and suggests solutions.
- Receives positive feedback on communication clarity and teamwork.
- Demonstrates a keen interest in learning more about change methodologies.
- 2
HR Business Partner (with a change focus)
3-4 yearsSkills to master
- Understanding business unit needs, advising leaders on people issues, managing employee relations, and supporting local change initiatives. Translating HR strategy into practical actions.
You're ready to move on when
- Strong relationships with business leaders and employees.
- Experience in supporting organisational restructures or new policy rollouts.
- Ability to influence without direct authority within their client groups.
- Demonstrates a strategic mindset beyond day-to-day HR operations.
- 3
Internal Communications Specialist (with OD exposure)
3-5 yearsSkills to master
- Crafting engaging internal narratives, managing communication channels, measuring communication effectiveness, and understanding how messages land with different audiences. Exposure to wider organisational development.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently produces high-quality, impactful internal communications.
- Strong understanding of audience segmentation and messaging.
- Proactively seeks feedback on communication effectiveness.
- Demonstrates an interest in the behavioural impact of communications.