In January 2006, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) initiated a survey of Federal Human Resources (HR) experts to collect data necessary to confirm the competencies of the CHCO Council Human Resources Management (HRM) Competency Model for recruitment and selection (attached). During the Proud-To-Be III cycle, agencies are using the competencies to establish targets and develop strategies for closing competency gaps in the HR Specialist workforce.

We have completed our analysis of the expert survey and are pleased to inform you that the CHCO Council competencies have been confirmed for use in selection at grades GS-13 or equivalent and above, with a subset confirmed for each grade below GS-13 or equivalent. Competencies confirmed for use in selection must be used in conjunction with OPM's Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Administrative and Management Positions that covers the HR Specialist, 0201, occupation.

Previously, the competencies in the model could be used for developmental purposes only. This greatly expands your options for closing competency gaps, allowing for the recruitment and selection of highly qualified HR professionals. In addition, the expanded model provides competency proficiency level information to assist with your workforce planning efforts.

Thank you for your continued support of this important project. If you have any questions regarding the results of the HR expert survey, please contact Andrea Bright, Manager of the Standards, Competencies, and Assessment Development Group at (202) 606-3600, or email competency@opm.gov.

Attachment

cc: Human Resources Directors