ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the development of capability through the acquisition of the right sort of skills, with a brief discussion in the specific context of the business partner and human resources (HR) leadership roles, and via career management, as some of the problems in capability stem from the lack of the right sort of preparation. In an ideal world organizations should begin by being clear about requirements for each role. This should encompass the knowledge, experience, skills and competencies. Many of the business partners, as much as to any part of HR, and a number of relevant points have been made in the chapter on the business partner role. The key additional skill issue is whether business partners are sufficiently business aware. According to Neil Roden, HR directors need to obtain positional authority and gain influence through reporting to the CEO with a seat on the executive committee or wherever the real decisions are made.
