Head of Human Resources

Career Guide
Heads of Human Resources lead an organization’s people strategy. They oversee hiring, compensation and benefits, employee relations, and compliance, partner with executives on organization design and culture, and ensure HR systems and policies support business goals.

Key Responsibilities

  • Set HR strategy aligned to business goals
  • Lead workforce planning and talent acquisition
  • Design compensation, benefits, and total rewards
  • Oversee employee relations and investigations
  • Ensure compliance with federal and state labor laws
  • Drive DEI, engagement, and culture initiatives
  • Manage HRIS, reporting, and people analytics
  • Partner with executives on org design and change

Career Progression

Can Lead To
Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)
Chief People Officer
SVP, Human Resources
Transition Opportunities
HR Consultant (people advisory)
Organizational Development Director
Head of Talent Acquisition
People Analytics Director

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills
Executive compensation and equity designEnterprise-wide org design and change leadershipAdvanced HR analytics and board-ready reportingComplex multi-state labor law strategyM&A people integration planning
Development SuggestionsEarn SHRM-SCP/SPHR and complete WorldatWork compensation courses. Lead a cross-functional initiative (e.g., pay-band redesign or post-merger HR integration) to apply skills and produce measurable outcomes.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range
Entry Level$130,000-$170,000
Mid Level$175,000-$240,000
Senior Level$240,000-$350,000
Growth Trend
stable - Demand tracks overall hiring; compliance and change needs keep it steady.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers
AmazonJPMorgan Chase & Co.Kaiser Permanente
Industry Sectors
TechnologyHealthcareFinancial Services

Recommended Next Steps

1
Obtain SHRM-SCP or SPHR; consider CCP coursework focused on executive compensation.
2
Deliver an organization-wide project (e.g., new pay structure or manager capability program) and quantify results to showcase impact.
3
Join SHRM/local HR executive groups and schedule 3-5 informational interviews with CHROs to validate scope and expectations.