The relationship between the HR director and the chief executive is key to a successful, high performing organisation, said Matthew Brearley, HR director for Vodafone UK.
“I strongly believe that the critical component in the HR function, when delivering through the organisation, is the partnership the HR director has with the CEO,” he told delegates at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) annual conference.
“The HR director has to work seamlessly with the CEO. If you have a strong partnership, you are always pushing in the right direction.”
His comments formed part of his five principles concerning the relationship with HR and the board. Other key points included a shared philosphy; the understanding that HR is the business; leadership and the board; and that HR has to deliver on its own agenda.
The successful partnership that Brearley has with Vodafone’s CEO, Nick Read, has been fundamental in forming a shared philosophy with the rest of the board over the last 18 months, he added. The organisation has now seen a seven per cent growth in revenues, year on year, since spring 2006.
