HR operating models
Our series on current practices, future models and successful transformations
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Our series on current practices, future models and successful transformations
The world of work is in a constant state of flux, with shifting employee expectations, hybrid working, and AI and automation being key drivers of change. With this rapid pace of change showing no sign of abating, we explore how the HR function should be organised to serve organisations and their people - both now and in the future.
In this series, we analyse current thinking to understand how and why people teams are reimagining their operating models. We interviewed senior people professionals across the private, public and third sectors, in organisations ranging from 1,000 to 330,000 employees, to find out:
Our podcast and first thought leadership article provide insights gained from pioneers who are leading the way in HR operating model transformation, reflecting on current practice, the key drivers of change and emerging models.
Our growing series of accompanying case studies reflects the real-life experiences of people functions that have recently evolved their operating model, exploring why it was necessary, the changes implemented and the outcomes achieved - both for the function and the organisation – as well as the challenges faced and their top tips on how to make any transformation successful.
Read on if you are considering a review of your own operating model.
Thought leadership
How can people teams balance line managers’ need for operational people management support while growing their team’s strategic influence through the HRBP role?
Thought leadership
We look at how investing in digital technologies, HR skills and culture drive success in restructured people functions
Thought leadership
We look at the main focus areas and share practical examples from organisations who are optimising their HR operating model
Thought leadership
We look at what’s driving change in HR structures, what emerging models look like and what to consider when evolving your current model
Podcast
Is the traditional HR operating model still fit-for-purpose or do we need to consider a new model?
Case study
A case study on moving to a lean, strategic HR model that operates more efficiently to support business objectives
Case study
A case study on maturing the HR model to align to the changing needs of the business, building capability, and introducing a dedicated team focused on employee engagement
Case study
A case study on developing strategic partners, aligning teams, increasing data analytics skill, and transitioning the L&D team into an internal academy
Case study
A case study of a people function shifting to a four-pillar model to deliver a more consistent employee experience throughout the organisation
Case study
A case study of an HR function shifting from an Ulrich+ model towards an employee experience-driven model
Have you transformed your operating model?
The CIPD would love to hear about your journey.
A collection of thought leadership articles from lead thinkers, academics, practitioners and consultants on the future of the HR function
Browse our A–Z catalogue of information, guidance and resources covering all aspects of people practice.
Discover our practice guidance and recommendations to tackle bullying and harassment in the workplace.
How can people teams balance line managers’ need for operational people management support while growing their team’s strategic influence through the HRBP role?
We look at how investing in digital technologies, HR skills and culture drive success in restructured people functions
A case study of an HR function shifting from an Ulrich+ model towards an employee experience-driven model
A case study of a people function shifting to a four-pillar model to deliver a more consistent employee experience throughout the organisation
How can people teams balance line managers’ need for operational people management support while growing their team’s strategic influence through the HRBP role?
We examine and outline recent research investigating the impact of generative AI tools on the HR profession
We look at how investing in digital technologies, HR skills and culture drive success in restructured people functions
We look at the main focus areas and share practical examples from organisations who are optimising their HR operating model