Human resource directors are accountable for overseeing and directing the operations of their company's HR (HR) department. They are responsible for the management of HR policies and services as well as plans for the whole company. HR directors are advocates to ensure that all employee and company interactions are conducted in an equitable and consistent way. Other duties typically include recruitment orientation, development, and training for newly hired employees. They also handle payroll processes, and the administration of benefits and salary. Directors of HR are accountable for the development of policies and employee relations as well as the improvement of performance. They typically are directly accountable to the chief executive officer (or other members of the executive staff) and are accountable for ensuring compliance with the regulations in all areas.
HR directors should put a high value on integrity, confidentiality and ethics. They should also be able to work within their HR department and work in a work environment that has an abundance of demand and expectations for providing customer and coworker service. Being confident and a team leader are essential for those in these types of roles. HR directors need to have solid communication, leadership, and organizational abilities, as well as self-discipline, good judgement and the ability to adapt. They must typically have at minimum a bachelor's degree in management of personnel or in a related field. Certain companies require specific certificates and occasionally an advanced degree or relevant work experience.