HR Career Progression: Stages, Competencies, and Salary

If you are interested in pursuing a career in human resources (HR) or advancing your current position, you might be wondering what the different stages of an HR career path are, what skills and qualifications you need to succeed at each level, and what benefits and challenges you can expect along the way. In this post, I will share with you my insights and tips based on my 12 years of experience as an HR professional in various industries in Bangladesh.

Career Stages

The HR career path can be broadly divided into five stages: entry-level, mid-level, mid-senior level, senior-level and top-level. Of course, these stages may vary depending on the size and structure of the organization, but they generally reflect the progression of responsibilities and competencies in the HR field.

1. Entry Level: Officer/Executive

This is the stage where you begin your HR journey. You are usually involved in operational tasks such as recruitment, payroll, training, employee relations and compliance. You work under the supervision of a manager or a senior executive and report to them regularly. You need to have good communication skills, attention to detail, basic knowledge of HR laws and policies, the ease with Microsoft office tools, and strong willingness to learn and grow.

The benefits package at this level may include a competitive salary (BDT 25K average), health insurance, provident fund, annual bonus and leave entitlements. You may also have opportunities for training and development, mentoring and networking.

2. Mid-Level: Assistant Manager,

In this stage, you are expected to take on more strategic roles and lead a team of HR officers or executives. You are accountable for planning, implementing, and evaluating HR programs and initiatives aligned with the organizational goals and objectives. Additionally, you provide guidance and support to your team members and other stakeholders on HR issues and best practices. To excel in this role, you must possess leadership skills, analytical skills, problem-solving skills, project management skills, and interpersonal skills.

At the mid-level, the average salary is around 50K. However, for top-paying organizations, the average salary is around 120K and health insurance, provident fund, annual bonus, and leave entitlements. You will also have access to various training and development opportunities, mentoring and networking programs, performance appraisals, and career advancement prospects.

3. Mid-Senior Level Manager/Sr. Manager

As a Mid-Senior Level Manager/Sr. Manager in the HR function, possessing HR certification such as SHRM-CP/SCP, as well as other relevant certifications i.e.: Certified Compensation and Benefits Specialist, is critical to your success. You will be responsible for developing and executing HR strategies and policies that align with the organizational vision and mission, with a focus on long-term strategic issues such as diversity and inclusion and risk management. In addition, you will oversee the performance and development of your team members and other HR managers and assistant managers. To excel in this role, you must possess strategic thinking, decision-making, innovation, change management, and stakeholder management skills.

To perform in this role, you can expect a benefits package that includes a higher salary. On average, the salary for this position is around 100K, but for top-paying organizations, the average can be as high as 200K. This package also includes health insurance, provident fund, annual bonus, and leave entitlements. You will have access to various training and development opportunities, mentoring and networking programs, performance appraisals, and career advancement prospects. Additionally, you may enjoy some attractive perks such as car allowances, mobile phone allowances, or club memberships. Remember, obtaining HR certification is a critical success factor in this role.

4. At the Senior Level General Manager/ Vice President stage, you become a leader of the HR function and a partner of the top management. You are responsible for setting the direction and vision of the HR function and ensuring its alignment with the organizational culture and values. Additionally, you lead the development and implementation of HR policies and practices that foster employee engagement, retention, and productivity. To excel in this role, you must possess visionary skills, business acumen skills, influencing skills, coaching skills, and emotional intelligence skills.

As a Senior Level General Manager/ Vice President, you can expect a benefits package that includes a salary of around 150K. However, for top-paying organizations, the average salary is around 500K as well as health insurance, provident fund, annual bonus, and leave entitlements. You will also have access to various training and development opportunities, mentoring and networking programs, performance appraisals, and career advancement prospects. Additionally, you may enjoy some attractive perks such as car allowances, mobile phone allowances, or club memberships. You may also have stock options or profit-sharing schemes.

5. At the Top Level COO or CEO stage, although not directly part of the HR track, it may be the ultimate goal for some HR professionals, where they can contribute their full potential. At this stage, you become a leader of the organization and a driver of its growth and success. You are responsible for defining the organizational strategy and direction and ensuring its execution through effective leadership and management. Additionally, you create a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration that inspires and empowers your employees, customers, and stakeholders. To excel in this role, you must possess visionary skills, business acumen skills, influencing skills, coaching skills, and emotional intelligence skills.

At the Top Level of the COO or CEO stage, you can expect a benefits package that includes a salary of around 300K. However, for top-paying organizations, the average salary is around 800K as well as, health insurance, provident fund, annual bonus, and leave entitlements. You will also have access to various training and development opportunities, mentoring and networking programs, and may enjoy some attractive perks such as car, housing, club membership, etc. You may also have stock options or profit-sharing schemes.

Notes:

1. Please note that the salary and benefits mentioned above are based on the average market practice for the role and are typically for the first 2 years. With increased experience and performance, the compensation package may vary significantly.