Starting from Scratch: How Do I Build an HR Department with No Hands-On Experience?

I have been teaching HRM to MBA students and executives for several years but have no practical hands-on experience in this area. Now, I have the opportunity to lead and establish an HR Department. Could you advise me on where to start and how to develop policies?

Establish the core component of what you believe HR is. In most cases, this includes the employee handbook, policies, procedures, etc.

As things are run differently in each country, you need to assess the requirements that you feel are of high priority. For example, in Australia, I believe the company culture, training and development, and flexibility with employees' needs are at an all-time high. Along with increased demands for salary levels to be above the market rate, there are procedures and policies embedded within the company to ensure smooth operations.

Let me know if you would like any additional help.

Thank you very much - Smerica. This company has been operating for the past 10 years but without any HR department. Today, the company is growing at a rate of 500%. Here lies my problem - there is no proper HR department in place. My boss has tasked me with developing one. His focus is on designing the organizational structure, conducting job analysis, and organization development. Could you please guide me on the steps I need to follow to do this strategically.