Chief Human Resources Officer: Job Duties, Skills and Salary 2025

What Does a Chief Human Resources Officer do?

The CHRO leads the organization’s HR strategy. You develop and implement policies related to hiring, employee development, and benefits, ensuring the company attracts and retains top talent while fostering a positive work environment.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Chief Human Resources Officers in the Executive field handle essential tasks and contribute significantly to achieving team and organizational goals. Here are some of their primary responsibilities:

• Develop and execute HR strategies that support the business objectives of the organization.
• Lead the HR department in delivering comprehensive HR services, including recruitment, training, development, and retention.
• Manage corporate governance by ensuring compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Drive the organization's staffing strategies to recruit and retain top talent.
• Oversee compensation, benefits, performance management systems, and safety and recreation programs.
• Implement employee relations and communication programs to foster a positive employer-employee relationship and promote a high level of employee morale.
• Advise senior management on HR issues and participate in strategic planning.
• Lead succession planning and talent management efforts to ensure leadership continuity.

How to Become a Chief Human Resources Officer

Launching a career as a Chief Human Resources Officer requires a specific education. We outline the essential qualifications, skills, and steps to enter this field.

Qualification

• Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Extensive experience in human resources roles, with a significant portion in a leadership capacity.
• Professional certifications such as SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional) or SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources) are highly regarded.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop HR departments and staff members.
• Strong understanding of labor law, finance, and strategic management.

Requirements & Skills

• Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills to manage and guide the HR team.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to handle complex HR issues.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of effectively communicating at all levels of the organization.
• Ability to make strategic decisions based on analytical and deductive reasoning.
• Deep understanding of HR functions and best practices.

Chief Human Resources Officer Salary Guide

Wondering what Chief Human Resources Officers earn? Explore salary ranges by experience, and career tips to maximize your earning potential.

The average salary for a Chief Human Resources Officer in the U.S. is approximately $198,700 per year and can vary from entry-level to senior positions. Chief Human Resources Officers may receive a wide range of benefits.

Chief Human Resources Officer Salary Career Steps