Four Groups

A survey by LogicaCMG showed an interesting distinction between the perception that HR have of their value and strategic contribution to the business and how this differs from that of board members. Writing in Personnel Today, Mike Madgwick states;

In fact, a recent study commissioned by LogicaCMG, taking in views from a cross section of the UK’s top 500 companies, points to a distinct difference of opinion between HR directors (HRDs) and board-level decision-makers. While three-quarters of HRDs feel they currently make a strategic contribution to business, less than half of decision-makers agree. Indeed, 62 per cent of these decision-makers believe that there is room for improvement in this very area, citing strategic business contribution skills as a key future requirement for HR.

No doubt the reasons for these differences are far from simple, however, I think the point is one that can’t be missed, especially given the desires from the board to invest more in their HR functions.

…with 60 per cent of (board level) decision-makers expressing the desire to take on the mantel of HR at board level and 48 per cent agreeing they need to take greater responsibility - and invest more - in people development.

There have been some recent developments amongst HR professionals and the shape of a body to represent them. The announcement of the “Commercial Added Value HR Association” outlined in this Personnel Today article highlights this new direction. I think this is an interesting and ultimately positive move, especially given some of the quotes below

Senior professionals are concerned they should be adding more commercial value, Griffin said. “There is a belief that HR is only taken seriously when the CEO is pro-HR. We are intent on setting the agenda to take HR forward.”

Speaking at the inaugural meeting last week, Griffin – a fellow of the CIPD – said one of the main themes to emerge during his research was the need to move the reputation of the HR function away from ‘pay and rations’.

Richard Green, senior HR business partner at HSBC and founding member, said: “The message here is let’s do ourselves a favour and be better at what we do.”

My only regret at the moment is that I can’t find a website for the new group. Maybe this Google link will throw something up eventually?