A new study from leading recruitment company Michael Page tracks the changing and challenging role of HR globally. The results are based on extensive data collected from over 2,500 HR managers in organisations ranging from SMEs to blue-chip brands in a cross-section of industries.The standout finding is that the HR function is undergoing radical change. From being regarded mainly as an administrative function, HR is becoming a strategic partner, aligned ever more closely with the business and focused on recruiting, developing and managing the talent on which organisational success depends. Almost half (45%) of senior HR leaders in South East Asia directly report to the highest levels of management (CEO, CFO etc.)The race for talent is back onThe report provides compelling evidence that organisations are gearing up for a new "war for talent":Nearly half (49%) of HR leaders in Australia expect their workforce to expand over the next 12 months23% of organisations have increased their budget for recruitment in the recent monthsThe technology sector is leading the global demand for talentTalent management ranks at the top of HR prioritiesAsked to identify their most pressing priorities, South East Asia’s HR leaders once again showed their focus on talent:Talent management – 53%Talent acquisition/recruitment – 33%Succession planning – 32%A mixed picture on recruitment plansThe survey brings to light regional differences: for example, only 50% of HR managers in Australia expect to see an increase in staffing levels over the next 12 months, as opposed to 75% in the Middle East. Similarly, 8% of Australia’s HR organisations list diversity and inclusion as a priority, versus the global average of just 4%.Matt Gribble, Regional Managing Director, Michael Page Australia comments: “The survey takes an objective look at the challenges and priorities of senior HR managers and leaders across the world. Australia’s HR leaders have been found to be above the global and Asia Pacific averages for the percentage reporting into the highest levels of management and they appear to be ahead of the curve when it comes to diversity and inclusion too.”To view the full report, visit the Michael Page Market Insights.About the Michael Page studyFrom May to June 2015, HR managers and leaders around the world were invited to participate in an online survey for Michael Page’s Global Insights: HR Barometer 2015.The study polled the views of 2,572 respondents located in in 65 countries in seven regions (Continental Europe, the United Kingdom and Ireland, North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Africa and the Middle East) and covered a range of industries and sectors, from media to manufacturing, consumer goods to construction.
