Liz Smyth CMHRNZ
What led you to a career in HR/the position that you are in currently?
During the final year of my BA study, the subject areas of HR Management became of great interest to me. I think from memory it was the human element of the subjects. After finishing my study I was fortunate to secure a Manager position within a hotel with opportunities to develop my HR experience and use my knowledge within that role which then led me to a Personnel Manager position in another hotel and then into a position as HR Officer within the corporate world working in Scotland’s largest law firm in the 90s. A benefit of joining the law firm was that they supported my part time study to obtain a CIPD – a postgraduate qualification – this is the industry standard for HR people management professionals in the UK.
What do you love about working in HR?
What I love is the balance HR offers between people-focused work and strategic thinking and the challenges and problem solving those both bring. In summary, I enjoy supporting people while contributing to organisational success, finding solutions for staff and managers and problem solving. The variety of the job certainly keeps the brain ticking and there is never a dull day.
I enjoy seeking and being offered opportunities to make a real impact on people and the organisation. I enjoy supporting employees throughout their journey, helping them feel heard, valued, and as we all know we cannot always solve their issues or agree to their requirements. But I am a believer that everyone must be treated with respect and effort is put in, in some way, to help people with their situation.
Are there any specific highlights of your career that you wish to share?
Throughout my career, some of the most rewarding highlights have been the successful and positive completion of processes within organisations (e.g. change management and employment relations). This includes partnering with, and supporting senior leaders to improve people processes, supporting employees through complex or challenging situations, and contributing to initiatives that enhanced engagement, wellbeing, and organisational culture. Earlier in my career I have been involved in end-to-end HR practices — from recruitment and onboarding through to performance development — which have provided me with operational, administrative and process experience at the individual level and the wider business.
What are your thoughts on Chartered Membership? How do you feel about being a Chartered Member?
Chartered Membership as a valuable recognition of professionalism and credibility within the HR field. It demonstrates a commitment to high ethical standards, demonstrating good character, commitment to continuous professional development including staying current with legislation and best practice. For me, Chartered Membership is a recognition of my leadership abilities and accountability and dedication to making a positive impact on both people and organisations.
What motivated you to work towards becoming a Chartered Member?
Working at a senior level in my current position, I was looking for recognition to formally acknowledge my level of responsibility and years of experience, capability, and commitment to the HR profession. Membership reflects my desire to maintain high professional and ethical standards, continue developing my knowledge and reflective practice, and reinforces my commitment to adding value at a strategic level within my organisation.
What are your next steps in terms of your career now that you are a Chartered Member?
I am proud to be a Chartered Member. My focus is on continuing to build depth and breadth in my HR practice. Opportunities allow me to give back to the profession, and I will continue with mentoring and coaching others to grow the depth and breadth of HR knowledge and experience.