The Evolving Role of HR in the Age of AI and Automation

In today’s fast-changing work culture, AI-driven tools are transforming nearly every aspect of how companies operate. From automated resume screening to chatbots managing leave requests, HR departments are embracing technology like never before. But far from making the human resources function obsolete, these tools are instead helping redefine the role of HR for a more strategic, emotionally intelligent future.

At the heart of this evolution lies a key question: What should HR look like in an AI-enabled world?

From Administrators to Strategic Architects

Traditionally, HR was seen as a largely operational function – managing payroll, recruitment, and compliance. But automation has now taken over many of these repetitive tasks. This shift is freeing HR professionals to focus on big-picture goals like talent development, culture building, and organisational transformation.

“Today, HR isn’t just about policies – it’s about purpose, connection, and development,” says Nidhi Choudhary, HR Business Partner at HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited and Apeejay School, Charkhi Dadri alumna, who brings over 14 years of experience across oil, energy, and manufacturing sectors.“AI can streamline tasks, but only people can understand people.”

This perspective captures a growing HR trend: the move from reactive problem-solving to proactive people strategy. Modern HR leaders are now expected to use data insights not just to manage performance – but to predict needs, retain top talent, and shape a future-ready workforce.

AI in HR: A Tool, Not a Replacement

From applicant tracking systems to learning management platforms, AI in HR is designed to improve speed and efficiency. But relying solely on tech can risk losing the human element that makes a workplace feel supportive and inclusive.

For example, AI can highlight performance dips – but it takes human judgment to know if someone is facing burnout or personal challenges. Algorithms can filter candidates—but empathy is needed to evaluate potential and cultural fit.

That’s why the best HR professionals are those who know how to balance automation with emotional intelligence.

Reimagining the Human Element

“Every employee has their own iceberg,” Nidhi reflects. “What you see in job titles and designations is just the surface. What lies beneath their stress, aspirations, values is what HR needs to understand.”

This human insight is critical, especially as HR now also handles diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), mental health support, and hybrid work policies. In Nidhi’s case, she also leads DEI initiatives in a manufacturing unit of over 10,000 people, a responsibility that can’t be delegated to machines.

The shift is clear: HR isn’t vanishing with automation, it’s evolving into something more complex, more strategic, and more human.