Human Resources plays a crucial and evolving role in shaping business success. From hiring and compliance to culture and strategy, HR touches every part of an organization. As companies grow, so does the need for clearly defined HR roles. Without clear role definitions, responsibilities often fall through the cracks, compliance risks increase, and the employee experience suffers. The right structure enables HR to operate more efficiently, meet regulatory requirements, and support long-term business goals. 

What does HR do within an organization? 

At its core, HR exists to support the people and the processes that drive a business forward. This includes everything from recruiting and onboarding to compensation, benefits, training, performance management, and workplace policies. While these responsibilities may look different depending on company size or industry, role clarity remains critical. When HR duties are vague or overly broad, it can lead to inefficiencies and compliance risks.  

What is the difference between tactical and strategic HR? 

HR tasks fall into two categories: 

• Tactical HR focuses on day-to-day functions: administering payroll, processing new hires, maintaining employee records, and staying on top of legal requirements. 
• Strategic HR looks ahead: developing talent pipelines, shaping company culture, aligning people strategy with business growth, and using analytics to improve retention or performance. 
  
  

Common HR Roles & Responsibilities: 

Titles can vary across organizations, but the responsibilities are what matter most. Defining and assigning those is what drives success. 

How do vague HR roles lead to compliance risks?  

One of the most overlooked areas in HR is compliance. Whether it’s drafting an employee handbook, navigating FMLA, or interpreting ADA Requirements, small mistakes can lead to fines or legal trouble.  

In many organizations, no one “owns” compliance. It’s buried inside another role or assumed to be someone else’s job. But with increasing state and federal regulation, HR roles must include clear responsibility for: 

• Keeping policies updated & legally compliant 
• Training managers on ADA, wage & hour, & anti-discrimination practices 
• Managing leave policies under FMLA & state-specific laws 
• Conducting routine audits of personnel files, I-9s, & job descriptions 
  
  

Adapting HR Roles as Your Business Evolves 

As businesses grow and change, so do the demands placed on HR. Whether it’s supporting remote teams, adopting new technologies, or navigating complex regulations, HR must continuously evolve to stay aligned with organizational needs. 

A key part of modern HR is anticipating what is ahead. That might mean shifting from a generalist model to specialized roles or expanding capacity to support strategic initiatives. Technology also plays a bigger role today, requiring HR professionals to be comfortable with data, automation, and digital platforms. 

Organizations that regularly reassess their HR structure are better equipped to attract talent, stay compliant, and drive performance. Intentional role design ensures that HR remains a strategic partner as your business evolves and grows.  

Aligning HR with Business Goals & Culture 

Beyond processes and policies, HR plays a key role in shaping how a company operates and what it stands for. When HR is aligned with business objectives and cultural values, it empowers managers, supports consistent leadership practices, and reinforces what success looks like across the organization. This alignment strengthens employee engagement, supports accountability, and helps culture scale alongside the business. 

Lutz Can Help Define Your HR Structure

At Lutz, we offer HR Consulting Services that help organizations define roles, reduce risk, and develop HR strategies that grow with their business. Whether you're growing your team or simply need clarity on where to start, we’re here to help. Contact us to start the conversation. 

• Achiever, Futuristic, Focus, Responsibility, Consistency

Laurie Cradick

Talent Director

Laurie Cradick, Talent Director, began her career in 1997. With a background spanning sales leadership, product management, and business development, she has built a career on forging strong relationships rooted in trust and results. 

Specializing in talent acquisition and client partnerships, Laurie connects businesses across industries with high-quality candidates who align with both role requirements and company culture. She approaches every relationship with genuine care and attentiveness, taking time to understand each client’s unique needs. Laurie values helping organizations grow through thoughtful hiring decisions and takes pride in contributing to their success. 

 

At Lutz, Laurie brings a strong sense of responsibility to every client interaction. Her ability to think long-term allows her to see beyond the immediate placement—anticipating future needs and identifying talent who can grow with an organization. Her professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail make her a trusted advisor to clients and a steady presence on the Talent team. 

 

Laurie lives in Omaha, NE, with her three daughters, Kendall, Hayden, and Emmerson, who are her biggest accomplishment. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, trying new restaurants, running, and traveling. 

402.778.7974

lcradick@lutz.us

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• Discipline, Harmony, Context, Consistency, Learner

Courtney Martin

HR Benefits & Compliance Manager

Courtney Martin, HR Benefits & Compliance Manager, began her career in 1995. With extensive experience in human resources and a focus on employee benefits and compliance, she plays a key role in supporting both Lutz team members and Outsourced HR clients. 

She specializes in health insurance benefits and state and federal compliance laws, helping individuals and organizations navigate complex requirements with clarity and confidence. Whether she’s answering employee questions or consulting with clients, Courtney brings a thoughtful, consistent approach that fosters trust and minimizes stress. 

 

Courtney lives in Blair, NE, with her spouse, Dave. Outside the office, you can find her rollerblading or spending time with friends and family. 

402.827.2081

cmartin@lutz.us