The people profession includes a broad spectrum of opportunities. We’ve outlined the specialist disciplines across HR, L&D, OD&D and beyond. If you work in one of these areas, or want to deepen your expertise for your own development, this is where you can explore career paths and plot your progress through your chosen areas of expertise.
The specialist knowledge areas
No matter what level you’re at, or what role you fulfil, the specialist knowledge areas show you how to apply your expertise to make a positive impact. For example, if you are an L&D consultant, you're likely to select the L&D specialism. If your role also supports the development of talent, you may also need to use some of the Talent Management specialist knowledge standards.
Creating a holistic approach around engagement which enables workers to have a voice and be their best.
Ensuring the relationship between an organisation and its people is managed through transparent practices and relevant law.
Ensuring workers have the knowledge, skills and experience to fulfil individual and organisational needs and ambitions.
Designing organisation models and systems, and developing behaviour and culture, to enable organisation strategy and performance.
Creating remuneration and benefits approaches which are aligned to current and future organisation needs and market conditions.
The people profession is a broad and international community within which there are many specialisms. Together, this range of specialisms can help to shape successful organisations."
CIPD Trust
Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.
Make the most of the Profession Map
The Profession Map is for everyone in our profession – individuals and teams, members and non-members. Learn more about the Profession Map and how you can use it.
Explore the purpose, values, knowledge and behaviours at the heart of our profession

How the international standard works for all people professionals

Find your current level of knowledge and experience and the next step in your career

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