Human resources manager

Human resources manager

Human resources managers oversee recruitment, performance, pay, wellbeing, training and development, employment relations and policies for the staff of an organisation.

Also known as

Human resource manager, HR manager, recruitment manager, employee relations manager, performance and retention manager, people and capability manager, people and performance manager

AUT programmes

Work environment

  • Usually work regular business hours
  • Usually work in offices
  • Need to be organised, make decisions and communicate well

Typical tasks

  • Manage hiring and recruiting of staff
  • Oversee staff performance and wellbeing
  • Provide advice on employment laws
  • Review and update human resources policies
  • Advise managers on recruitment plans
  • Discuss terms of employment with staff
  • Manage and train staff
  • Review and update job descriptions
  • Answer human resources questions from staff
  • Use data to improve human resources decisions

Salary information

$71K-$228K
LowerMost commonUpper
$71K$95K-$173K$228K

Tips from AUT graduates

Madison Ashby
People & Capability Advisor, Auckland Kindergarten Association
Bachelor of Business
Marketing combines analytical thinking with human insight. It’s about understanding behaviour, positioning value and making strategic decisions that create measurable impact. My advice is to focus on building judgement, communication skills and reliability. The marketing industry moves quickly, and those who can think clearly under pressure stand out. And finally, be proactive. Opportunities often come to those who show readiness, not just readiness on paper.
Ivy Lyden-Hancy
Bachelor of Arts
Marketing combines analytical thinking with human insight. It’s about understanding behaviour, positioning value and making strategic decisions that create measurable impact. My advice is to focus on building judgement, communication skills and reliability. The marketing industry moves quickly, and those who can think clearly under pressure stand out. And finally, be proactive. Opportunities often come to those who show readiness, not just readiness on paper.
Brooke Wright
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
Marketing combines analytical thinking with human insight. It’s about understanding behaviour, positioning value and making strategic decisions that create measurable impact. My advice is to focus on building judgement, communication skills and reliability. The marketing industry moves quickly, and those who can think clearly under pressure stand out. And finally, be proactive. Opportunities often come to those who show readiness, not just readiness on paper.
Connor Winiata
Associate Data Scientist, Fonterra
Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences
Marketing combines analytical thinking with human insight. It’s about understanding behaviour, positioning value and making strategic decisions that create measurable impact. My advice is to focus on building judgement, communication skills and reliability. The marketing industry moves quickly, and those who can think clearly under pressure stand out. And finally, be proactive. Opportunities often come to those who show readiness, not just readiness on paper.
Scott Barlow
Distribution Centre Optimisation Lead, Global Supply Chain, Fonterra
Bachelor of Business
Marketing combines analytical thinking with human insight. It’s about understanding behaviour, positioning value and making strategic decisions that create measurable impact. My advice is to focus on building judgement, communication skills and reliability. The marketing industry moves quickly, and those who can think clearly under pressure stand out. And finally, be proactive. Opportunities often come to those who show readiness, not just readiness on paper.

Outlook

HRM/ERM is evolving as technology, AI and digital platforms reshape recruitment, remote work, data security and workforce management. Leaders must prioritise diversity, equity and inclusion, support migrant workers, and embed te Tiriti led practice. Roles exist across all sectors, from small businesses to large organisations. There is a growing focus on health and safety, sustainability, climate resilience, and organisational adaptability in times of rapid change.

What employers and industry want in graduates

* Trustworthy with a high level of integrity

* Able to relate to people from all backgrounds

* Approachable and empathetic

* Resourceful, creative and innovative

Further study options