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Human resources manager

What does a human resources manager do?

A human resource manager plays a vital role in managing one of the most valuable assets of an organisation - its employees. Working in human resources (HR) involves both admin tasks and strategic planning with a focus on attracting and retaining staff. Strategic human resources management can include developing performance management systems for employees, preparing reports, training staff, and liaising with unions. In a HR role you would usually work in an office and be part of an organisation’s leadership or management team. There are many industries you could work in, including healthcare, education, finance government or not-for-profit.

Is a career as a human resources manager right for me?

If you’re a natural leader who gets getting energy from interacting with others, you might like being a HR manager. Key human resources skills include:

  • a highly organised nature
  • strong decision-making abilities
  • an ability to multitask and manage competing priorities 
  • strong communication skills 
  • good conflict management skills
  • a high ethical standard and the ability to maintain confidentiality.

How to become a human resources manager

Every journey to study is individual and there are several paths to a career as a human resources manager. Becoming a human resources manager often involves obtaining a degree in human resources management, business, or a related field. Gaining practical experience across various human resource roles and responsibilities through internships or entry-level HR roles is crucial. To become a successful HR manager you need to develop key skills such as recruitment, performance management, and employee relations.

At UniSQ, we offer degrees tailored to equip students with the knowledge and skills required for a successful career in HR, including the following: 

What human resources qualifications are required to become a HR manager?
To pursue a human resources career path, a bachelor's degree in human resources management, business, or a related field is typically required.  Many professionals also benefit from completing postgraduate qualifications.
What are the primary human resources manager roles and responsibilities?

A human resources manager’s roles and responsibilities include:

  • overseeing and evaluating human resource management strategies, policies, and plans
  • advising and assisting in creating induction, training, and development programs
  • setting up performance management systems to review individual and team performance
  • working with employers and unions on employment issues
  • organising support and counselling for staff members
  • developing programs for occupational health and safety, equal employment opportunity, and other government compliance requirements
  • managing redundancy or retrenchment processes for employees. 
What is the typical human resources manager salary like in Australia?
The human resources manager salary in Australia will vary, depending on the size of the organisation, location, and the manager’s level of experience. Please view the salary information on this page for further details.
What is the human resources management job outlook like in Australia?
The human resources job outlook for management positions remains very strong, as organisations continue to place a strong emphasis on effective workforce management and employee engagement. HR professionals with strategic, technological, and leadership skills are especially in demand.

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