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Corporate leadership training

Leadership in Human Resources Training Course in Germany

Help HR professionals lead with confidence: tying HR practice to business strategy, attracting and growing talent, managing performance fairly, raising engagement and steering their organisations through change and complex people issues, through practical, hands-on training.

  • In-person, virtual
    or blended
  • Customised for
    your organisation
  • Delivered worldwide,
    including Germany
  • For HR managers, partners
    and people leaders

Course overview

What Is Leadership in Human Resources?

Leadership in human resources is the skill of shaping the employee experience so that it drives organisational growth, with HR acting as a business partner, not a service desk. The course combines contemporary HR practice with strategic leadership principles, covering how to match HR to business strategy, plan talent and succession, appraise performance, engage and include staff, resolve disputes and manage change.

A blend of theory, practical case studies and interactive discussion, with peers from diverse backgrounds, lets participants work on succession, appraisal and change problems of the sort leaders in Germany bring to their HR role.

Tailored to the dynamic business landscape of Germany, the course gives HR professionals, from aspiring HR managers to seasoned HR executives, a strategic framework for leading people: attracting and developing talent, managing performance, strengthening engagement and diversity and guiding their organisations through change.

Why it matters

Why HR Leadership Matters in Germany

In Germany’s dynamic business landscape, organisations depend on HR leaders who understand the modern workforce. Leaders who connect HR practice to business strategy help their organisations grow and stay competitive.

  • Competing for talent

    Organisations grow only when they can recruit, retain and develop capable people.

  • Culture and morale

    A supportive, empowering workplace is where people stay motivated.

  • Strategy needs people

    Growth plans depend on staff with the right skills in the right roles.

  • Changing ways of working

    HR leaders in Germany help organisations respond as the workforce keeps evolving.

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The Knowles leadership approach

From Insight to Impact

Six steps carry participants from clarifying the organisation’s goals to improving HR’s own methods, a cycle in which recruiting, development, engagement and measurement each contribute to business results.

HR leadership in action

  1. 1. AlignWhat does the business need?
  2. 2. AttractWho do we need?
  3. 3. DevelopHow will people grow?
  4. 4. EngageDo people want to stay?
  5. 5. MeasureWhat do the data say?
  6. 6. EvolveWhat must HR change?

Key benefits

Why Organisations Choose This Course

This programme helps your leaders and your organisation to:

  • HR Aligned with Strategy

    HR priorities follow the organisation’s wider strategy.

  • Stronger Talent Pipeline

    Succession and leadership development keep critical roles filled.

  • Fairer Appraisals

    Appraisals built on clear expectations and fair feedback.

  • Higher Engagement

    Employees are motivated, satisfied and keen to remain.

  • Inclusive Culture

    A culture where diversity is welcomed and everyone belongs.

  • Better People Decisions

    Measuring HR’s impact gives leaders evidence for people decisions.

Have questions about this course?

Our team is happy to help. Send us a message and we will get back to you within one business day.

Contact Us
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Course curriculum

A practical and structured learning journey.

Three stages of four units each cover HR’s strategic role first, then the talent cycle from hiring to retention, and finally culture, engagement, conflict and change.

  • Unit 1

    Strategic HR

    • Match HR plans to the company’s wider strategy.
    • Show the board how HR adds to organisational success.
    • Spend less HR effort on admin and more on strategy.
  • Unit 2

    Workforce Planning

    • Review the capabilities the business holds now and will require.
    • Locate missing skills and plan to build them.
    • Prepare successors for business-critical positions.
  • Unit 3

    Policy and Compliance

    • Draft HR policies that are easy to follow and up to date.
    • Keep track of regulatory changes that affect HR.
    • Treat every employee by the same consistent rules.
  • Unit 4

    People Analytics

    • Measure HR effectiveness through turnover and morale data.
    • Select metrics that link HR work to business outcomes.
    • Explain workforce results simply to senior management.
  • Unit 5

    Attracting Talent

    • Describe the skills each new role really requires.
    • Present the organisation as a place people want to work.
    • Choose candidates on evidence, not instinct.
  • Unit 6

    Appraisal Systems

    • Set performance expectations and goals that are clear.
    • Coach managers to give constructive feedback.
    • Feed review results into development and pay decisions.
  • Unit 7

    Developing People

    • Plan learning that builds the skills the business needs.
    • Help managers become coaches for their teams.
    • Grow tomorrow’s leaders through succession planning.
  • Unit 8

    Retaining Talent

    • Study what keeps employees committed and what drives them away.
    • React early when strong performers show signs of leaving.
    • Give talented staff a clear route to progress.
  • Unit 9

    Employee Engagement

    • Boost motivation and satisfaction across teams.
    • Listen to employees and respond to their concerns.
    • Promote well-being and morale through recognition.
  • Unit 10

    Workplace Conflict

    • Handle sensitive HR issues with professionalism and empathy.
    • Resolve workplace disputes before they escalate.
    • Tackle the root causes when conflict keeps returning.
  • Unit 11

    Inclusive Workplaces

    • Develop strategies that make diversity a lasting strength.
    • Remove bias from selection, appraisal and advancement.
    • Create a supportive, empowering work environment.
  • Unit 12

    Leading HR Change

    • Apply change management to restructuring in HR.
    • Bring in HR systems that cut manual work.
    • Equip managers to lead dispersed teams.

Course agenda

Two-day course agenda.

A sample agenda showing how the two days run, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The final agenda is agreed with you.

Day oneHR as a strategic partner

Welcome, objectives and introductions

Strategic HR

Morning break

Workforce planning

Lunch

Policy and compliance

People analytics

Afternoon break

Attracting talent

Day one reflection

Close

Day twoManaging talent and leading culture

Recap and goals for the day

Appraisal systems

Morning break

Developing and retaining people

Lunch

Employee engagement

Workplace conflict and inclusion

Afternoon break

Leading HR change

HR leadership action plan

Close

Participant resources

What participants receive.

A practical set of resources to support learning during the course and application afterwards.

  • Course Workbook

    Content, summaries and activities for every unit.

  • Templates and Worksheets

    Ready-to-use tools to apply learning at work.

  • Action Plan Template

    Turn learning into clear next steps.

  • Job Aids and Quick Guides

    Key models, checklists and frameworks for daily use.

  • Digital Resources

    Additional materials to revisit after the course.

  • Certificate of Completion

    Recognition of the training completed.

A facilitator taking notes on a clipboard as two participants practise a workplace conversation at a round table, with colleagues looking on

Practical application

From theory to real workplace impact.

Practical case studies, planning exercises and discussions let participants apply each idea to the succession, appraisal, conflict and change questions HR leaders in Germany work through.

  • Workforce Plan

    Set the skills available today against future demand and plan to close the shortfall.

  • Appraisal Redesign

    Analyse a sample appraisal process and improve its fairness.

  • Grievance Case Work

    Resolve a sensitive staff complaint from first report to close.

  • Engagement Plan

    Convert employee concerns into steps managers can follow.

Who should attend

Designed for people who lead HR.

Whether participants are aspiring HR managers ready to step up or seasoned HR executives refining their approach, the course suits HR managers, talent acquisition, learning and development and organisational development specialists, and managers who lead people.

  • HR DirectorsTake people strategy to the board table.
  • HR ManagersBuild a cohesive, high-performing HR team.
  • HR Business PartnersGive managers practical guidance on staff matters.
  • Line ManagersUse sound HR methods when leading their teams.
  • Business OwnersLay the HR groundwork for a growing company.
  • Aspiring HR LeadersStep into an HR leadership role with confidence.

Course format and delivery

Flexible options to suit your organisation.

Choose the format and duration that fit your schedule and learning needs, whether at your workplace in Germany, online or a mix of both.

  • In-Person Training

    Delivered at your organisation in Germany or at a suitable venue.

  • Virtual Training

    Interactive, engaging live online delivery.

  • Blended Learning

    A combination of in-person and virtual sessions.

  • Customised Training

    Tailor case studies, organisation focus, delivery mode, modules and duration. Explore Customized Training

  • Typical Duration2 Full Days9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Also available as a 1-day, half-day, 90-minute or 60-minute session.

Prerequisites

Prerequisites and experience level.

No formal prerequisites. Some experience of HR or people management helps, and the course works well for mixed groups.

  • No formal prerequisites

    Open to anyone who leads or shapes HR work.

  • All experience levels

    From HR officers to HR directors.

  • Designed for mixed groups

    HR and line managers see people issues from both sides.

  • Bring a live issue

    Bring a current HR challenge, kept anonymous, to work on.

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Course framework

A structured approach to developing leaders.

The framework takes participants round a learning cycle: analyse their organisation’s workforce needs, develop an HR solution, reflect on how it performs and then implement it in their own workplace.

  • Practical and Actionable

    Strategies participants can apply in their HR role from day one.

  • Relevant to Germany

    Reflects the business landscape and workforce issues organisations in Germany deal with.

  • Strategic Outlook

    Self-reflection on leading HR with authenticity and integrity.

The HR leadership cycle

  1. 1. LearnCore leadership principles
  2. 2. ExploreCase studies and discussion
  3. 3. PractiseRole-plays and simulations
  4. 4. ReflectSelf-assessment and journaling
  5. 5. ApplyReal-world projects
  6. 6. GrowMentoring and peer support

Key learning outcomes

From knowledge to lasting leadership impact.

By the end of this programme, participants will be able to:

  • 01

    Align HR to strategy

    Set HR priorities that match the company’s strategy.

  • 02

    Plan the workforce

    Work out which capabilities the business will require and how to develop them.

  • 03

    Run fair appraisals

    Run appraisals with clear goals and constructive feedback.

  • 04

    Develop talent

    Build succession plans that grow new leaders.

  • 05

    Lift engagement

    Address employee feedback together with line managers.

  • 06

    Lead HR change

    Help staff and HR teams overcome resistance to change.

A confident team leader in a blue blazer smiling as she leads a team meeting, with colleagues seated around the table in the foreground

People shape every result an organisation achieves, and HR leaders decide how well those people are supported.

A participant placing sticky notes reading Role Play, Case Study and Feedback around a hand-drawn Action Plan circle on a workshop table

Example exercises and tools

Learn by doing.

Practical tools, exercises and real-world scenarios let participants navigate complex HR challenges and make people decisions that serve the business.

Case studies and interactive discussions reflect situations HR leaders in Germany may encounter, from staff resisting a reorganisation to a sensitive dispute that must be handled with professionalism and empathy. Participants practise listening to employee concerns, giving constructive appraisal feedback and showing how HR adds to organisational results, and leave with strategies they can put to work in their own organisation straight away.

  • Talent Grid

    Use a nine-box grid to compare staff on performance and potential and plan succession.

  • Stay Interviews

    Plan talks that uncover why good people stay.

  • HR Dashboard

    Decide which HR metrics best show impact on results.

  • Policy Review

    Audit whether a policy is easy to follow, fair and up to date.

Assessment

Assessment and learning progress.

A mix of steps before, during and after the programme keeps learning relevant and turns it into action.

Step 1

Before the training

Share your goals and team context.

Agree the objectives and focus areas.

Confirm the format, timing and group.

Step 2

During the training

Role-plays, simulations and practical exercises.

Feedback from experienced leaders as skills develop.

Group discussion and reflection.

Step 3

After the training

A personal action plan for the workplace.

Self-assessment and guided journaling to track progress.

Ongoing learning through peers, mentors and the alumni network.

Workplace application

Relevant to your context.

Participants put the approach to work in organisations across Germany, from recruitment and appraisals to change programmes and new HR technology.

  • RecruitmentRecruit for the skills required.
  • Performance ReviewsGive feedback that is constructive.
  • Employee RelationsSettle disputes with empathy.
  • Learning ProgrammesBuild skills through learning.
  • RestructuringReduce resistance to change.
  • HR SystemsCut manual work with HR systems.
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Let’s discuss your requirements

Request a Customised Leadership Programme.

Talk to our team about how this course can be tailored for your organisation in Germany or other locations worldwide.

Request a Proposal
  • Share your priorities
  • Receive a tailored proposal
  • Explore delivery options

Adapting for Germany

Adapting the programme for German organisations.

We tailor the course so it reflects your people, your sector and the context you work in.

  • Local case studies

    Examples and case studies drawn from leaders in Germany.

  • Cultural awareness

    Content that respects cultural nuances and builds inclusive environments.

  • Community focus

    Projects that address real local and community issues.

  • Industry and organisation focus

    Examples, terminology and scenarios from your sector.

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Delivery worldwide

Flexible delivery across Germany and worldwide.

We deliver this programme in Germany and in other locations worldwide, with flexible formats and options to suit your organisation.

  • In-person
  • Virtual
  • Blended
  • At Your Workplace

    In-house sessions at your office in Germany.

  • A Venue You Choose

    Delivered at a training venue that suits your team.

  • Live Online

    Interactive virtual sessions wherever your people are.

  • Across Countries

    Programmes coordinated across several locations worldwide.

Client experiences

What our participants say.

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Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this course.

What is the main focus of this course?

It prepares HR professionals to lead strategically: matching HR to business strategy, planning talent and succession, managing performance, engaging and including staff and leading change in organisations in Germany.

What topics does the course cover?

Twelve units in three stages: HR as strategic partner (strategic HR, workforce planning, policy and compliance, people analytics), managing talent (attracting talent, appraisal systems, developing people, retaining talent) and culture and change (employee engagement, workplace conflict, inclusive workplaces and leading HR change).

Who should attend this course?

HR managers and executives, business partners, talent acquisition, learning and organisational development specialists, line managers, business owners and aspiring HR leaders.

Is the course suitable for new or first-time leaders?

Yes. Aspiring HR managers gain a strong start in their first leadership role, and seasoned HR executives refine a more strategic approach.

Is the course practical or theory-based?

Strongly practical. Participants plan for future skills, improve an appraisal process, resolve a sensitive complaint and turn employee concerns into actions, with theory kept brief.

How long is the course?

The standard course runs over 2 full days, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It can also be delivered as a 1-day, half-day, 90-minute or 60-minute session.

Can the course be customised for our organisation?

Yes. We can adapt the content, examples and format to your goals, industry and team. See Customized Corporate Training for how we tailor programmes.

Can we use examples from our own industry?

Yes. We design and deliver our courses with subject matter experts in each field. Tell us about your industry, context and terminology when you enquire, and it will be taken into account.

Can we combine this course with other topics?

Yes. We can combine related topics into one programme or build a learning pathway across several sessions and levels.

Is this course available outside Germany?

Yes. We deliver this programme in other countries worldwide, in person or live online, and can coordinate it across several locations.

What delivery options are available?

In person at your workplace or a venue you choose, live online, or a blend of both.

What kind of exercises and activities are included?

A skills shortfall plan, a nine-box succession grid, appraisal improvements, a sensitive complaint case, stay conversation plans and engagement steps, closing with a personal action plan.

Do participants receive mentoring during the course?

Yes. Participants receive mentorship and constructive feedback from experienced leaders throughout the course.

Will participants build a professional network?

Yes. Participants connect with fellow participants, build mentoring relationships with facilitators and guest speakers, and can join an alumni network for ongoing learning.

How does the course support personal growth?

Through regular self-assessment and reflection, guided journaling to track progress and set goals, and techniques for mindfulness and stress management.

Is the course relevant to the German context?

Yes. It is tailored to HR professionals working in Germany’s dynamic business landscape, with case studies that reflect the workforce, performance and change issues organisations meet.

Which cities in Germany can the course be delivered in?

We can deliver it in cities across Germany, including Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, Frankfurt, Stuttgart and Düsseldorf, and other cities on request. We also offer a full range of leadership courses in Germany.

Can we download a course brochure?

Yes. Download our course brochure for an overview of our training programmes.

How do we request a proposal?

Share your goals and requirements through the enquiry form on this page. Our team replies within one business day with suggestions and a tailored proposal.

Who can we contact about this course?

Email [email protected], call +65 6714 6663 or use the enquiry form on this page. We reply within one business day.

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Next steps

From enquiry to delivery.

A simple, transparent process from your first message to the training day.

  1. 1

    Enquiry

    Share your training needs and priorities.

  2. 2

    Consultation

    We discuss and refine the scope with you.

  3. 3

    Proposal

    Receive a tailored proposal with delivery options.

  4. 4

    Confirm

    Review, adjust and agree the details.

  5. 5

    Delivery

    We deliver the programme for your team.

Get in touch

Get in touch about this course.

Tell us about your team and goals, and we will recommend the right format for your organisation in Germany. Fill in the form or contact our team directly.

  • Email us[email protected]
  • Call us+65 6714 6663
  • Quick replyWe get back to you within one business day.
  • Ask before you commitTalk to our team about the right course and format for your needs.

This course is customisable

We can tailor the content, examples and activities to your team’s industry, goals and workplace context. Explore Customized Training

Enquiry form

Request a Training Proposal

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