The CHRL (Certified Human Resources Leader) is a voluntary credential from the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) in Ontario. It shows that an HR professional has the skills and experience for senior and leadership roles, but you do not need it to work in HR.
Official website ↗The CHRL is a senior-level designation for people who lead HR work in an organization. It is aimed at experienced professionals who set strategy, guide executives and manage teams. It is a voluntary credential. Employers do not need you to hold it, but many see it as a sign of strong knowledge and professional standards.
People with the CHRL work in many parts of HR. These include benefits, compensation, training, employee assistance programs and HR business partnering. It also fits leadership jobs such as chief people officer or chief diversity officer. Holders agree to follow a professional code of ethics and to keep learning over time.
HRPA uses a written exam to check that candidates can apply HR knowledge at a senior level. It focuses on real workplace situations and decision-making. Most people study for a few months, using HRPA's guides and their own work experience.
The CHRL must be kept current. You stay a member in good standing, pay annual membership dues and complete ongoing professional development. Holders must also keep following the HRPA code of ethics. If you let these lapse, you may lose the right to use the designation.