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CHROs have evolved significantly, gaining unprecedented influence within the C-suite over the past few years.
However, this expanded role demands a broader skill set. Modern CHROs at the peak of their careers are now expected to handle much more than their predecessors did. “I firmly believe the job has gotten harder and bigger,” says Steve Patscot, head of Spencer Stuart’s North American human resources practice.
I spoke with industry experts who detailed the essential skills top-level CHROs need as they become more integral to the business world. These include hard skills like data and analytics. Implementing AI within an organization has become a primary responsibility for HR, requiring leaders to explore and adopt new technologies while effectively communicating with tech departments.
Moreover, other crucial skills are softer. HR has traditionally been the first point of contact for employee issues, but now it must also focus on building positive relationships within the C-suite and with the board of directors. A recent survey revealed that about 22% of HR leaders wished they had known how to collaborate with other top executives before taking on their roles, and around 39% felt the same about working with directors.
“You’ve got one chance to prove yourself with the board: That first meeting,” says Jennifer Wilson, head of Heidrick & Struggles’ global human resources officers practice. “They don’t give you a second chance.”
It’s a whole new world. Do you have the skills you need to navigate it? Discover what industry insiders shared about the essential knowledge every CHRO needs, and read the full story here.
Paige McGlauflin paige.mcglauflin@fortune.com @paidion
Today’s edition was curated by Emma Burleigh.
Around the Table
A round-up of the most important HR headlines.
Restaurant executives have mixed feelings about California’s recent $20 minimum wage increase but acknowledge it has attracted better job candidates. Business Insider
Finance, consulting, and sales companies are now seeking job candidates with golf skills, as business deals and networking on the green are resurging. Wall Street Journal
The proportion of North American employees whose companies offer summer Fridays has plummeted from 55% in 2019 to just 11% in 2023, as more businesses opt for WFH Fridays instead. NBC News
A business executive terminated a remote employee who was juggling two full-time jobs, citing poor performance and deeming it “unethical” to burden coworkers. Business Insider
Watercooler
Everything you need to know from Fortune.
Vexed. A new report reveals that two-thirds of Americans believe companies are not effectively addressing the wealth gap between CEOs and staff, with top executives earning nearly 200 times the average employee’s pay. —Seamus Webster
Top turnover. Crowdfunding platform Kickstarter is firing seven executives and senior employees while promoting two workers within its C-suite, aiming to revamp amid prolonged stagnant growth. —Jessica Matthews, Leo Schwartz
Climate conundrum. Gen Z is the most climate-conscious generation, yet most lack the “green skills” needed to tackle environmental challenges. —Orianna Rosa Royle
