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 Coordinator / Project Support Officer
2-3 yearsSkills to master
- Mastering communication drafting, basic stakeholder mapping, managing project documentation, and supporting training logistics. You'll be good at following processes and making sure things run smoothly.
You're ready to move on when
- You've independently managed communication for small project phases.
- You've taken ownership of organising and delivering parts of a training programme.
- You're proactively identifying minor risks or issues and proposing solutions to your manager.
- You're consistently receiving positive feedback on your organisational skills and attention to detail.
- 2
Internal Communications Specialist
3-4 yearsSkills to master
- Developing multi-channel communication strategies, tailoring messages for diverse audiences, measuring communication effectiveness, and managing internal campaigns. You'll be a master storyteller.
You're ready to move on when
- You've led the communication strategy for a significant internal initiative.
- You're adept at translating complex information into engaging, easy-to-understand content.
- You've successfully influenced key internal stakeholders through your communications.
- You're comfortable advising senior leaders on communication best practices.
- 3
HR Business Partner (with Change Focus)
3-5 yearsSkills to master
- Understanding organisational design, talent management, employee relations, and how HR policies impact change initiatives. You'll have a strong grasp of the 'people' side of business.
You're ready to move on when
- You've supported significant organisational restructuring or new policy rollouts.
- You're skilled at coaching managers through difficult conversations related to change.
- You've contributed to developing strategies for employee engagement during transformation.
- You have a deep understanding of employee sentiment and concerns during periods of uncertainty.