Are you an HR thought leader, practitioner or subject matter expert? theHRDIRECTOR is now accepting synopsis submissions for its upcoming December 2025 edition (Issue 254) — featuring four timely, critical themes that are shaping the future of HR.

Submission Deadline: 8th September 2025

Submit your synopsis: thehrdirector.com/article-submission-portal

Topics for Issue 254: December 2025

HR 4.0 – Redefining Human Resources for the Digital Age

In a world rapidly reshaped by AI, hybrid work models, and skills-based hiring, HR is at a pivotal crossroads. Traditional models are no longer sufficient. HR 4.0 explores how HR must transform from a transactional function into a strategic driver of innovation, agility, and inclusive digital cultures.

We’re seeking contributions on:

• The shift from job-based to skills-based workforce architecture

• Building ethical, human-centered AI policies in the workplace

• Human-machine collaboration and the rise of augmented workforces

• Rethinking leadership, culture, and capability frameworks

• Future-ready HR operating models in the post-pandemic and post-Brexit era

• Ethical challenges in AI, algorithmic decision-making, and data governance

Share provocative ideas, research, case studies or bold forecasts on how HR can lead — not lag — in the digital transformation journey.

Collaborative and Matrixed Organisations – Navigating the New Structure of Work

As work becomes more decentralised and digitally connected, hierarchical structures are giving way to matrixed, cross-functional teams. HR plays a central role in ensuring cohesion, performance, and purpose in this fragmented landscape.

We invite thought leadership on:

• Designing people systems for matrixed, hybrid and global teams

• Driving collaboration and psychological safety amid uncertainty

• Clarifying accountability and leadership in non-linear reporting lines

• Adapting performance management and career paths for matrix models

• Balancing autonomy with alignment in complex talent ecosystems

• The future of structure: Is the matrix model sustainable?

 In an era of distributed work, globalisation, and AI-enhanced collaboration, your insights can help HR teams navigate the evolving organisational blueprint.

2030 Environmental Targets – HR’s Role in Driving the Sustainability Agenda

With only five years remaining to meet 2030 climate goals, HR must lead with resilience and resolve. Amid economic pressures and political pushback, sustainability must stay on the corporate agenda — and HR is central to making that happen.

We’re looking for contributions on:

• Aligning workforce strategy with 2030 environmental goals

• Developing green skills and sustainable leadership at scale

• Creating accountability frameworks for ESG in performance and rewards

• Leading inclusive, just transitions in transforming industries

• Embedding purpose-driven culture in uncertain political climates

• Retaining and retraining talent to support the green economy shift

🌱 Help us showcase how HR can be a catalyst for long-term environmental responsibility and a driver of future-fit, purpose-led organisations.

Supporting the CEO – HR’s Strategic Partnership with Leadership

Today’s CEOs face unprecedented demands — from global disruptions to talent crises. More than ever, HR is a critical strategic partner, helping CEOs steer through uncertainty, drive innovation, and maintain culture and performance.

We welcome insights on:

• How HR leaders serve as advisors, confidants and change agents to the C-suite

• Managing the tension between support and challenge in CEO relationships

• Cultivating leadership models that blend agility, empathy and purpose

• Why more HR leaders don’t become CEOs – and how that could change

• Strengthening leadership alignment during transformation and turbulence

Explore the evolving and essential HR-CEO dynamic — perhaps the most important business partnership in today’s fast-changing world.

How to contribute?

We’re calling on HR professionals, academics, consultants and business leaders to share:

• Fresh insights

• Innovative practices

• Research-based articles

• Real-world case studies

Submit your article synopsis by 8th September 2025 via our online portal:
https://www.thehrdirector.com/article-submission-portal/

Be part of a publication that leads the conversation on the future of HR. We look forward to your contributions to Issue 254 of theHRDIRECTOR Magazine.