HR
NZ
NZ
HR Career Pathways – Aotearoa New Zealand
Human Resources New Zealand (HRNZ) · Professional Development Framework
6 Pathways
👥 HR Generalist Pathway
The broadest HR pathway — supporting organisations through the full employee lifecycle from attraction to exit.
1
HR Coordinator
Entry Level›
Key Focus & Responsibilities
Provides administrative and operational support across the HR function. Maintains employee records, assists with recruitment logistics, onboarding, and policy documentation. First point of contact for general HR queries.
Core Skills
Qualifications & Certifications
Next Role Progression
🌱 Developing
Manages routine HR admin tasks with guidance; building understanding of Employment Relations Act 2000 requirements and HRIS systems.
✅ Proficient
Independently manages HR administration; accurately processes employment documentation and supports managers with standard HR processes.
⭐ Advanced
Identifies process improvements; mentors new staff; proactively flags compliance risks and contributes to HR projects.
2
HR Advisor
Intermediate›
Key Focus & Responsibilities
Provides generalist HR advice to managers and employees on recruitment, performance, employee relations, and people practices. Supports policy interpretation and contributes to HR projects.
Core Skills
Qualifications & Certifications
Next Role Progression
🌱 Developing
Advises on standard HR matters with support; building confidence in employment relations and performance conversations.
✅ Proficient
Independently advises on a broad range of HR matters; manages straightforward ER cases and supports managers effectively.
⭐ Advanced
Handles complex HR matters; coaches managers; recognised as a trusted advisor; contributes to policy development.
3
Senior HR Advisor
Senior›
Key Focus & Responsibilities
Leads complex HR advisory work, including performance improvement processes, restructures, and organisational change. Provides coaching to managers and mentors junior HR staff.
Core Skills
Qualifications & Certifications
Next Role Progression
🌱 Developing
Manages complex cases with some guidance; developing change management and coaching capability.
✅ Proficient
Independently leads restructures and complex ER; coaches managers and mentors HR Advisors effectively.
⭐ Advanced
Shapes HR policy and practice; recognised expert; leads significant organisational change initiatives.
4
HR Manager
Leadership›
Key Focus & Responsibilities
Leads a team of HR practitioners, drives HR strategy aligned to business goals, and acts as a trusted advisor to senior leaders. Accountable for HR service delivery and team performance.
Core Skills
Qualifications & Certifications
Next Role Progression
🌱 Developing
Building confidence leading a team; developing strategic capability alongside operational HR delivery.
✅ Proficient
Leads HR team effectively; aligns HR strategy to business priorities; trusted advisor to senior leadership.
⭐ Advanced
Shapes organisational people strategy; builds high-performing HR function; influences executive decision-making.
5
Head of People & Culture
Executive›
Key Focus & Responsibilities
Accountable for the full people and culture strategy across the organisation. Leads culture transformation, workforce strategy, DEI initiatives, and builds organisational capability at an executive level.
Core Skills
Qualifications & Certifications
Next Role Progression
🌱 Developing
Stepping into executive scope; building board-level presence and enterprise-wide strategic capability.
✅ Proficient
Leads people strategy with confidence; drives culture change; credible executive voice on people matters.
⭐ Advanced
Transforms organisational culture; shapes industry practice; recognised thought leader in NZ HR profession.