People analytics specialists collect, curate and interpret data to create people insights which guide decision making, often at the most strategic level. 

What does a people analytics specialist do?

All people professionals need to have a level of understanding around people analytics, and are expected to know how to take an evidence-based approach to data and decision-making.   

People analytics specialists take this further. They are deep-dive experts in data, data systems and how to use data science to create models and conduct complex data analysis. They understand the way people behave and interpret data to inform strategic and operational decision-making across the employee lifecycle. 

With their structured, methodical approach, people analytics specialists use analytical consulting methods to address challenges and shape solutions, employing both qualitative and quantitative methods. They are problem solvers, who conduct research design and data analysis along with other forms of evidence to enable effective decision making.  

People analytics specialists employ storytelling techniques using data visualisations such as dashboards to help stakeholders get to the bottom of issues.   

Your typical activities

Here are some of the activities you can expect to be involved in as a people analytics specialist:

  • Use business intelligence tools to explore and organise people data
  • Build complex databases of people data
  • Work with stakeholders to develop questions and hypotheses to provide insight into people issues
  • Conduct research design using quantitative and qualitative methods
  • Conduct complex data analysis, and identify patterns and trends in people data
  • Create data models
  • Create data visualisations and use storytelling techniques to inform decision-making on people issues

A day in the life of a people
analytics specialist

A day in the life of Adam Fox-Everitt, Reward Analyst specialising in people analytics

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A day in the life of a people
analytics head

A day in the life of Simon Davis, Head of Partner Delivery at Phase 3

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Video: Using data to change things for the better

Access to better analytics doesn't just mean a more accurate reporting mechanism, says Andrea Owen of the Office for National Statistics – it can transform the way the entire organisation operates.

Types of roles in people analytics

Here is a shortlist of the types of job titles you might find in people analytics:

  • People analyst
  • Senior people data analyst
  • HR information systems (HRIS) manager
  • People analytics manager
  • People analytics consultant
  • Head of people analytics

Develop your knowledge in people analytics

People analytics standards

Each standard progresses through four levels of impact. Which level do you most embody in your day-to-day work?

People analytics resources

Understand what people analytics is, the different types of HR data, and the importance of people analytics strategy and processes.

CIPD Learning courses in People Analytics

Learn from data analytics experts in a programme that gives people professionals the tools to effectively use data and analytics in their organisation

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Career options in the
people profession

Explore the twelve career areas within the people profession, and the typical activities you may find yourself doing

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Career guidance

Information and guidance to help you excel in your role, transition into the profession, and manage a career break

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