HR marketing manager: your employer brand ambassador

With their dual skills in human resources and marketing/communication, HR marketing managers are at the service of recruitment and the company's reputation. What are the challenges of the job, the tasks performed and the skills required? Sandrine Lejemble, an expert in human resources and organisational management, profiles this newcomer.

Virtually all business sectors are struggling to recruit these days. That's where the HR marketing manager comes in, because this job is part of the recruitment and career management professional family. In fact, it is also known by another title, that of recruitment and employer brand manager.

What are the challenges facing HR marketing managers?

Historically focused on the administrative management of personnel, the HR function is now more involved in the development of human resources. This has become a strategic mission in a context where jobs are in short supply and recruitment difficulties are becoming more acute by the day. Already in a state of flux in recent years, the recruitment market has been further shaken by the COVID-19 crisis. Faced with a shortage of talent, companies are running the risk of running out of staff with key skills and having to carry out their business in downgraded mode in their absence.

To attract and retain new recruits, companies need to promote their uniqueness, be as visible as possible to candidates, professionalise their recruitment and provide visibility on career development. That's why HR teams that structure their approach to the employer brand would benefit from having a specialist in these issues among their ranks.

What are the HR marketing manager's main tasks?

The role of the HR marketing manager is directly linked to the development of the HR function within companies. That's why they define and implement recruitment and employer branding strategies.

4 main missions

Note: they can manage a team.

What training and experience is needed to enter the profession?

The job of HR marketing manager requires a 4/5-year higher education qualification in human resources, with a specialism in employer branding.

At least 5 years' experience in a similar role would be appreciated. Other asset: experience in management and in creating and/or promoting an employer brand as part of a recruitment plan.

What skills do you need?

The HR marketing manager's skills lie at the crossroads of human resources, communication and marketing. They enable them to unite teams and consolidate corporate culture. They are true ambassadors for the company's employer brand!

TECHNICAL SKILLS (hard skills)

• Mastering the recruitment process: defining needs, publishing advertisements, sourcing, selecting and interviewing candidates, hiring and on boarding
• Proficiency in content management tools (CMS) and graphic design software (DTP)
• Writing skills
• Mastery of public speaking techniques
• Mastery of project management methods and tools

BEHAVIOURAL AND RELATIONAL SKILLS (soft skills)

• Good listening skills, leadership and team management skills
• Organisational skills
• Good interpersonal skills, team spirit and a taste for cross-disciplinary work
• A taste for innovation and continuous improvement

What is the remuneration?

The salary range is between €40,000 and €55,000 gross per annum. Remuneration varies according to the size of the company, professional experience and the size of the team to be managed.

What are the career prospects for HR marketing managers?

HR marketing managers can progress to HR development manager, human resources manager or consultant.

What are the attractions and constraints of this job?