Irish HR leaders stress aligning people strategy with business goals

HR and people professionals from across western Ireland convened in Galway to discuss the evolving demands of the HR leadership and management sector. The ‘Future-Proofing HR’ event, organised by CIPD Western Region, focused on the critical role of aligning HR and talent strategies with core business objectives, including cost control, digital transformation, and productivity.

The CIPD’s annual HR Practices in Ireland study, conducted with Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick, revealed that talent management, resourcing, and skill shortages remain pressing priorities.

Organisations are competing to attract, retain, and develop workforces capable of meeting current and future demands, yet the HR function faces significant challenges in aligning its priorities with wider organisational goals.

An expert panel included CIPD Market Director in Ireland Alison Hodgson, IBEC Regional Director Kevin Feighery, and John O’Hehir, Managing Director of Phoenix HR & OD Consulting. Hodgson emphasised that HR must not only respond to change but actively shape strategic decision-making. She noted that connecting human and commercial objectives ensures that initiatives such as digitalisation and cost control do not compromise skills development, engagement, or employee wellbeing.

Feighery highlighted the sector’s regulatory challenges, particularly Pension Auto-Enrolment and EU Pay Transparency. These developments underline the pivotal role HR plays in guiding organisations through talent management, leadership development, and workforce adaptation amid a rapidly changing labour market.

The event reinforced the necessity for HR strategies to be integrated with overall business priorities. Leaders are recognising that effective people management directly impacts organisational performance, innovation, and resilience. By fostering close alignment between HR initiatives and business objectives, organisations can better navigate workforce challenges while strengthening productivity and employee satisfaction.

Explore the full report and insights from the Galway HR forum in the complete story.