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
Head of HR Shared Services / Senior HR Operations Manager
5-8 years in this role before DirectorSkills to master
- Scaling a Tier 1 HR shared service centre, managing a large team (20+), implementing core HR systems, and reporting on operational KPIs to senior leadership.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led a major HR system upgrade or implementation.
- Demonstrated ability to reduce operational costs whilst improving employee satisfaction.
- Consistently delivered on complex HR projects with multiple stakeholders.
- Built and developed a high-performing team, with clear succession planning.
- 2
Head of HRIS / HR Technology Lead
5-7 years in this role before DirectorSkills to master
- Deep expertise in HRIS architecture and integrations, vendor management for HR tech, data governance, and leading technical projects within HR.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully integrated multiple HR systems or modules.
- Developed and executed a multi-year HR technology roadmap.
- Proven ability to translate business needs into technical requirements for HR systems.
- Strong collaboration with IT leadership on HR tech strategy.
- 3
HR Business Partner (Senior/Lead)
7-10 years in this role before DirectorSkills to master
- Deep understanding of business unit needs, strategic workforce planning, employee relations, and influencing senior business leaders. This path requires a pivot into operational design.
You're ready to move on when
- Led significant organisational change initiatives from a people perspective.
- Developed and implemented HR strategies that directly supported business growth.
- Strong commercial acumen and understanding of business drivers.
- Demonstrated interest and capability in process improvement and technology.