HR Roles Uncovered: What's the Real Difference Between an HR-Executive and an HR-Generalist?

Understanding the Difference Between HR-Executive and HR-Generalist

I would like to know the difference between an HR-Executive and an HR-Generalist. I am currently working as an HR-Executive, so I would appreciate some insights on this topic. Understanding the distinction between these roles will be beneficial when I apply for new job opportunities.

Your guidance on this matter would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Sangani

"Executive" is the designation in the HR department. There may be more than one executive in the HR department. Based on the requirements and the company/departmental needs, the executives are delegated various responsibilities such as recruitment, training, compensation & benefit management, payroll management, etc. The generalist role is to take care of everything pertaining to the HR department.

Division of responsibilities normally occurs in major industries where the number of employees is high, while the generalist role is common in small-scale industries where only one person may be available.

The positions may include Executive HR (Recruitment), Executive HR (Training & Development), Executive HR (Compensation & Benefits), Executive HR (Career Planning), Executive HR (Performance Management), Executive HR (Payroll Management), and Executive HR (Generalist), among others.

Regards,
Kamesh

I appreciate your guidance. However, I have to work on Recruitment, Leave & Attendance, Online HRMS, Statutory Compliance, etc. Hierarchy-wise, which designation is bigger: HR Generalist or HR Executive? If I am applying for a new job and my designation in the offer letter is HR Executive, how should I present my profile?

Regards,
Sangani

I believe you might not have read my communication. Once again, I want to reconfirm: Executive is the designation and the department is HR. Recruitment, Training & Development, Payroll, etc., are the roles and responsibilities in HR. As you are presently taking care of all responsibilities in HR, your role is higher than that of an Executive - HR who is focused on Recruitment, Payroll, or Training & Development.

Any Executive - HR handling only recruitment/payroll/training & development is suited for that specific role. However, you have a wide range of choices and are eligible for any responsibility across all the functions you are currently overseeing.

If you are applying for a job, you should mention that you work as an Executive - HR (Generalist) and beneath that, list the areas where you have expertise.

Regards,
Kamesh

Thank you for your invaluable guidance. I now have a clear understanding of the topic mentioned above. I appreciate your kindness.

Thanks & Regards,
Sangani