The Josh Bersin Company

So You Want To Be A Chief HR Officer? Why It's Harder Than It Looks

Jul 1, 2024

Discover the intricate challenges faced by Chief Human Resources Officers today. The role demands a mix of HR expertise, executive skills, and a strong grasp of data and technology. Insights from extensive research reveal surprising career paths of many CHROs, indicating gaps in succession planning. Additionally, the multifunctional nature of the role means that understanding human dynamics is as crucial as technical acumen. Perfect for those aspiring to senior HR positions or involved in hiring CHROs.

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Quick takeaways

The evolving complexity of the CHRO role necessitates diverse skills such as systemic thinking and data proficiency for effective leadership.

Research reveals a lack of internal succession for CHROs, highlighting the need for improved development and career progression programs within HR.

Deep dives

Overview of CHRO Research Project

A significant research project is underway to study the role of Chief Human Resources Officers (CHROs) and the success factors that contribute to their effectiveness. This project aims to gather insights on the characteristics, capabilities, and demographics of high-performing HR leaders, assessing around 47,000 global individuals in similar roles. Various titles, ranging from SVP to CHRO, cover a wide array of industries, highlighting the complexities of managing multifunctional HR functions across public and private sectors. This research will eventually lead to the launch of a specialized membership program for CHROs, providing them with access to relevant content and support.

Exploring the Complex Role of Chief Human Resources Officers

17min

In this podcast I walk through a few of the findings from our CHRO Insights® research, explaining why the CHRO role has become more complex and difficult than ever.

This podcast episode discusses the challenges, issues, drivers, success factors, and derailers of being a head of HR or CHRO. I share early insights from a massive research project that studied 47,000 heads of HR from various industries and sectors.

The research reveals that many CHROs did not come from their own company, indicating a lack of succession management and internal development. It also highlights the complex and multifunctional nature of the CHRO role, requiring HR domain expertise, C-level executive skills, systemic thinking, comfort with data and technology, and a good understanding of human nature.

If you are hiring a CHRO or aspiring to a senior HR role, listen in. And read my in-depth article on the topic.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: The Success and Frustrations of Being a CHRO or Head of HR 04:10 Insights from a Massive Research Project on CHROs 09:21 The Challenges of Moving into a CHRO Role 16:06 The Complex and Multifunctional Nature of the CHRO Role 21:53 Conclusion: Opportunities for CHROs to Learn and Connect

Additional Information

The Ever Expanding Role of the CHRO (YouTube)

Introducing The Systemic HR Initiative

Learn about Galileo, the World’s AI Expert Assistant for HR

Special Josh Bersin Academy Course: AI in HR (highly acclaimed)