The HR professionals surveyed were asked about their educational backgrounds, qualifications, international experience, responsibilities, challenges, and personal aspirations. Below you'll find the key findings from the report, followed by the full report.

Key findings

• Staff retention is the single biggest challenge facing HR leaders over the next 12 months.
• Talent management and retention are the biggest areas of focus over the next two years. 
• 22% of GCC-based HR leaders now sit on the boards of directors at their respective organisations - a growing trend in the region.
• The majority of HR leaders are female (54%), aged between 30 and 45-years old.
• Almost half (49%) have worked in other professions before switching to HR. 
• Finance is considered the most important discipline for HR to partner with. 
• Industry experts advise the new generation of leaders to gain cross-industry experience.

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