The finance function offers a useful parallel. In finance, responsibilities are divided between the CFO (for business alignment & strategy) and the controller (for efficient & effective operations)
Whether the role of HR is bifurcated or not, for HR to be accepted as a strategic partner, it must be seen to be capable of managing its own house efficiently and delivering essential services – from recruitment to training and development – in a reliable and cost-effective manner.
Unless HR can speak the language of business, gain a familiarity with financial, commercial and operational issues and understand other managers at all levels, it is unlikely that it will make the transition from service provider to strategic business partner. |