News: Performance Management
'HR chiefs disappointed as executives doubt their role'
28 March 2008
Human resources (HR) bosses have expressed their disappointment at the revelation that many chief executives doubt the worth of their profession.
In a report by Pricewaterhouse Coopers, only 43 per cent of the 1,150 chief executives questioned said they were satisfied with the ability of their HR department when it comes to competing for talent in the workplace, Personnel Today reports.
John Williams, global head of HR at financial services firm ING, told the publication: "I am disappointed at the chief executives' opinions of HR. While it is very hard to prove return on investment, it is up to HR to do so."
Stephen Battalia, head of team HR at foods manufacturer Nestlé UK said HR departments must discuss what value they add to profits and turnover with their chief executives.
Tim Miller, vice-president of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), recently called for managers to take responsibility for nurturing the talents of staff and rather than leaving it to HR employees.
Mr Miller, who is also director of people, property and assurance at Standard Chartered Bank, said the role of HR was to facilitate and support talent development, not to do it for line managers, reports People Management.
