Human resource managers generally report to either the most senior manager under the
chief executive or directly to the chief executive. The degree of sophistication, assessed on the
basis of role clarity, perceived importance in the organization, and degree of delegation to line
managers was most evident in the private sector services area. A subtle but evident thread in
interviews with HR managers is the constant requirement for them to work at gaining
credibility and justifying their role. Although some HR managers are highly qualified,
HRM is not necessarily seen to be a prestigious role.