HR officers now critical C-suite players, research says

New research by International Workplace Group demonstrates that chief human resources officers (CHROs) are playing an increasingly pivotal role in shaping business success.

According to a study of more than 1,000 CHRO leaders across the US and the UK, conducted by International Workplace Group, almost nine in 10 (88 per cent) CHROs feel that their influence in the workplace is at a record high.

The shift, the company said, reflects the evolving business landscape (84 per cent), where priorities such as employee wellbeing and happiness (64 per cent), attracting top talent (64 per cent), boosting productivity (58 per cent), and a greater focus on policy compliance and enforcement (53 per cent) have become “critical areas of focus” for business leaders.

Australian research, International Workplace Group noted, supports the conclusion that CHROs are increasingly recognised as essential for navigating challenges within the C-suite.

“CHROs are encouraging vulnerability, and fostering open dialogues within the 44 per cent of c-suites who are feeling more stressed by their work than they were two years ago. The same survey found that 58 per cent feel their organisation now relies more heavily on their department, and 67 per cent are asked to do more in their role than before,” it noted in a statement.

The research also found that:

• Eighty-nine per cent of CHROs consider themselves trusted senior advisers to their CEOs or business leaders.
• Almost all CHROs consider themselves trusted senior advisers to their CEOs or business leaders, and a similar number claim that their role strongly influences profitability (96 per cent); productivity, talent recruitment, and long-term employee retention (all 95 per cent); as well as employee culture (94 per cent).

Moreover, the company went on, with quality candidate recruitment, long-term talent retention (both 58 per cent) and workforce wellbeing (56 per cent) becoming increasingly important objectives for the C-suite, “it is evident that CHROs’ top priorities are directly linked to business goals”.

Elsewhere, CHROs believe that flexible working has a significant role in creating a productive and loyal workforce, with 81 per cent saying that flexible working is key to retaining top talent. 

Speaking about the findings, International Workplace Group Plc CEO Mark Dixon said: “Hybrid and platform working is no longer just a perk – it is a strategic necessity for businesses aiming to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

“By embracing flexible working models, companies can unlock greater productivity, attract and retain top talent, ultimately building a happier workforce.

“CHROs are at the forefront of this transformation, ensuring that hybrid working not only supports employee wellbeing and progress, but also drives long-term business success.”