1. Explain how organisational and HR strategies and practices are shaped and developed and explain the purpose and key objectives of human resources management and the HR function within a contemporary business environment.

2. Identify the purpose and key objectives of the HR function in contemporary organisations and be able to demonstrate the process of evaluating current and future human resource needs within the business environment; both in terms of numbers of people and skills and competencies.

3. Appraise the relationship between organisational performance and effective HR management and development. Know how to identify and respond to short-term changes in the business and external contexts and provide solutions to address them.

4. Explain the significance of employment legislation to an organisation’s HR practices and evaluate how to harness effective HR practices in a global marketplace in terms of adding value and positive contribution to sustained organisation performance
Task scenario:

British MPs recently made accusations against one of Europe’s biggest retailers for treating its workers inhumanely. Union officials reported a particular instance where an employee gave gave birth to a baby in a toilet at the company’s Shirebrook warehouse in Derbyshire, as she was dreaded losing her job had she called in sick in an environment where employees are hired and fired at whim. In addition, there were claims of some workers being assured of permanent contracts in exchange for sexual favours. Furthermore, the firm is being investigated over staff being paid below the minimum wage. There are suggestions that managers were sacrificing employee wellbeing in the interest of maximising company profits

In response to all of the above allegations, Sports Direct said in a statement that its policy is to treat all people including its employees “with dignity and respect”.

This report highlights real HR and legal isssues for several organisations beyond Sports Direct. As an HR manager, you are required to produce a report addressing the following areas;

Task:

(1) Introduction: You are required to define the term Human resource management and outline the background of the report.
(200 words 10 Marks)

(2) Outline and explain THREE HRM functions that are necessary for Sports Direct.
(600 words 20 Marks)
(3) Considering the situation of the above mentioned organisation, discuss any TWO suitable workforce planning methods that can be used in Sports Direct.

(500 words 20 Marks)

(4) Describe the ways in which the overall corporate image and performance of Sports Direct can be improved by valuing employee development.

(500 words 20 Marks)
(5) Providing the reasons, outline any TWO key areas of employment legislation that need to be considered by HR department of Sports Direct.

(500 words 20 Marks)

Conclusion: Brief summary of the key discussions.

Recommendation: Outline any FOUR recommendations suggesting the key HR priorities for Sports Direct in the current context.
(200 words 10 Marks)