Parr told HR magazine the role of HR directors has "become more central" to organisations in recent times, but that for the top HRDs influence goes beyond their function and even their employer.
"They have influence broader than their own organisation, their sectors are more widely about changing HR policies, learning and development process and the approach to talent management within the business," she said.
Parr also recommended fitting HR strategy around "the strategic objectives of the organisation" for the best results. She explained that HR's positioning in the business puts it in the perfect place to bring the strategies of diverse functions together.
"After all, HR people are known by everyone in the organisation. They are the people that have the greatest reach and involvement. So their role is actually key to creating a degree of cohesion in the business too," she said.
She went on to urge HR directors to embrace their roles as leaders.
"HR directors play a crucial role in their own organisations, really pushing the culture and the values of those companies," she said. "And I think in terms of what people want from leaders, it’s about authenticity, it’s about people that you can believe in and follow and who have vision."
