The Role of Human Resource Managers in Transforming the Public Service in Africa

Abstract

Starting from the premise that the smooth-functioning of the public services and governments depends significantly on human resource managers, this article examines their roles as critical drivers and champions of change in the public service. The article advances the argument that the transformation of the public service depends on a reformed and modernized human resource function. Human resource managers should be dynamic and responsive and supportive of the strategic mission of the public service.  This presupposes a re-orientation of human resource managers and their departments in order to enable them carry out their duties in line with the HRM model. Human resource managers should become full-fledged members of the public service’s senior management team, capable of linking human resources policies to the public service’s vision, mission, strategic goals and objectives.  To meet these challenges, human resource managers need a broad-ranging professional development, multiple skills and a comprehensive understanding of the roles associated with the HRM approach to the management of employment relationships in the public service. Human resource managers must play a pivotal role in helping organizations formulate human resource policies and strategies relevant to the needs of the public service.