What does a human resources manager do?
A human resources manager oversees recruitment, employee relations, compliance, training, and culture initiatives. They ensure people operations run smoothly while aligning workforce planning with business objectives.
What are the key skills to assess while looking for a human resources manager?
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to connect people goals to company performance.
- Employee Relations: Handling conflicts, feedback, and grievances effectively.
- Leadership & Communication: Influencing executives and building trust.
- Change Management: Leading transitions like restructures, mergers, or culture shifts.
- Data-Driven Decision-Making: Using metrics like turnover, engagement, and performance.
- Policy Development & Compliance: Maintaining fairness and legal integrity.
- HR Technology: Fluency in HRIS, ATS, and analytics platforms.
- Coaching & Mentorship: Supporting managers and employees in development.
What are the KPIs for a human resources manager?
Before reviewing performance metrics, link the HR manager’s role to outcomes that influence retention, engagement, and organizational growth.
- Employee Retention Rate / Turnover %
- Time-to-Fill / Cost-per-Hire
- Engagement & Satisfaction Scores
- Training Completion & Development ROI
- Diversity & Inclusion Metrics
- Performance Distribution / Goal Attainment %
- Absenteeism & Productivity Metrics
- Compliance & Audit Pass Rate
- Manager Effectiveness Ratings
- Internal Mobility / Promotion Rate




