Retention is a growing challenge for HR, even, it turns out, within their own teams. New research* has found that two-thirds (65%) of HR professionals expect to leave their organisation in the coming year. Many will already be actively looking for their next position.

Of the 300 UK HR decision-makers polled, just a third (35%) said they were not currently job hunting, nor have any imminent plans to do so. Notably, those supporting the biggest workforces, of 1,500 employees or more, appear the most likely to be primed to leave, with only a quarter (27%) of HR professionals at large organisations happy to stay in their existing role (for now at least).

For those intending to switch jobs, the most frequently cited reason is to gain new knowledge and skills (33%) – suggesting that many want more development opportunities than they are being offered. Earning more money is another big driver, with around a quarter (24%) reportedly feeling underpaid and looking to boost their wages at another employer.

A fifth (20%) are considering a move to find a more rewarding or fulfilling job, while a similar number (19%) want to improve their work/life balance. And, proving that a strong employee benefits offer is not just a ‘nice to have’ but a real value-add, as many as one in six (16%) HR professionals who are looking to change employers are doing so for a greater choice of benefits and rewards.

Other popular reasons for seeking employment elsewhere include reducing stress and workload (15%), increasing job security (15%), and working fewer hours (14%). For others, it’s just time to move on to new opportunities (13%). Poor leadership, which can significantly impact performance, morale and engagement, was also a concern for one in eight (13%) of those contemplating quitting their HR job.

Top 10 reasons why HR professionals are looking to move jobs:

1.   To gain new knowledge and skills: 33% of respondents who are currently job hunting, or planning to in the coming year

2.   They want a higher salary (they feel underpaid): 24%

3.   They want a more rewarding / fulfilling job: 20%

4.   To improve their work-life balance: 19%

5.   They want a better choice of / more employee benefits: 16%

6.   They want a less stressful job / more manageable workload: 15%

7.   They want more job security: 15%

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