Two-thirds of HR Professionals Planning to Leave Their Roles, Survey finds

New research suggests that nearly two-thirds of HR staff in the UK are considering a move to a new organisation within the next 12 months.

The survey, carried out by from HR and payroll software provider Ciphr, found that only a third (35%) were not actively seeking a new role or planning to do so soon. Those working in the largest organisations, with 1,500 employees or more, appear most likely to leave: just 27% of HR professionals at large firms reported they were content to stay in their current role.

For those looking elsewhere, the top motivation is career development, with a third (33%) citing a desire to gain new knowledge and skills. Salary is another major driver, with roughly a quarter (24%) feeling underpaid and seeking higher wages.

TOP REASONS FOR LEAVING ROLE

Other common reasons for moving include finding a more rewarding role (20%), improving work-life balance (19%), and accessing a better package of employee benefits (16%). Reducing stress and workload (15%), increasing job security (15%), and working fewer hours (14%) were also cited. Some HR professionals said it was simply time to move on (13%), while 13% identified poor leadership as a key factor.

The full top 10 reasons HR professionals are considering a move are:

1. Gain new knowledge and skills – 33%
2. Higher salary – 24%
3. More rewarding/fulfilling job – 20%
4. Improve work-life balance – 19%
5. Better choice of employee benefits – 16%
6. Less stressful job / manageable workload – 15%
7. More job security – 15%
8. Reduce working hours – 14%
9. Time to move on – 13%
10. Poor leadership – 13%

THE RETENTION CHALLENGE

Claire Hawes, Chief People and Operations Officer at Ciphr, said the findings highlight a worrying trend for employers. “Most organisations are aware that retention is a challenge, but they may not anticipate the high levels of discontent and attrition risk within their own HR teams,” she said.

Hawes added that HR teams themselves are often a barometer for wider workforce sentiment. “If people in HR feel overlooked, undervalued, or lack development opportunities, it’s likely other employees feel the same. Employers need to ensure HR professionals have clear training routes, upskilling opportunities, and involvement in broader business projects. Otherwise, organisations risk losing a vital part of their workforce to competitors.”

The survey also revealed that around 10% of HR professionals considering a move are thinking about leaving the profession entirely. Check out Ciphr’s full report here.

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