HRi, the UK’s professional membership body for independent HR and People professionals, is proud to announce the successful trademarking of the HRi Certified^® mark, awarded to independent HR professionals who meet the rigorous standards set by HRi Accreditation. This milestone reinforces HRi’s dedication to setting and maintaining the highest industry standards, offering independent HR professionals a trusted way to showcase their expertise and credibility.

Why Does HRi Certified^® Matter for Independent HR Professionals?

The trademarking of HRi Certified^® ensures the exclusivity of the mark as a trusted symbol of professional excellence. While the HRi Certified^® mark is awarded to independent HR professionals who meet the rigorous standards of HRi Accreditation, the trademark itself protects the brand identity and reinforces public trust in the mark as a badge of quality. These standards are grounded in HRi’s established pillars of Suitability, Structure, Information and Data Management, and Project and Case Management Systems.

For SMEs, this means access to dependable, high-quality HR support tailored to their business needs, including expert advice on compliance, talent management, and organisational growth. SMEs benefit from partnerships with HRi Certified^® consultants, gaining confidence in professionals who uphold the highest standards and deliver expert solutions that drive business success.

For independent HR and People professionals, the trademarked HRi Certified^® mark is more than just a badge—it symbolises trust, credibility, and excellence, serving as a powerful tool for building client confidence and gaining visibility through HRi’s trusted directory.

Accessible Excellence with HRi Lite Membership

HRi’s upcoming Lite membership provides a cost-effective pathway for professionals focused on earning the HRi Certified^® mark. Tailored for those seeking an accreditation-focused option, this membership offers access to the accreditation process without the additional features of Core or Premium memberships. It is ideal for professionals looking to gain recognition and credibility through HRi Accreditation, with the flexibility to upgrade later for benefits such as select HR templates, industry webinars, and partner discounts.

HRi Lite membership is designed for professionals who aim to:

• Demonstrate their commitment to excellence and professional standards.
• Build credibility with a respected mark that SMEs recognise and trust.
• Be listed in HRi’s directory, a trusted resource for SMEs seeking independent HR support.

Core and Premium memberships, on the other hand, offer additional benefits, including a library of templates, resources, and exclusive events, catering to professionals seeking more comprehensive support for their HR practices.

As members develop their careers or businesses, HRi Lite membership provides an excellent foundation, while the Core and Premium options empower HR professionals to expand their impact and business capabilities.

“The trademarking of the HRi Certified^® mark reflects HRi’s ongoing commitment to supporting independent HR professionals,” says Mary Asante, CEO of HRi. “By making HRi Certified^® status more accessible, we continue to set the standard for excellence and trust in the independent HR profession.”

How to Achieve HRi Accreditation and Become HRi Certified^®

HRi Accreditation is open to all HR professionals committed to demonstrating a commitment to delivering exceptional professional services and maintaining the highest standards and excellence. Current membership options include Core and Premium. With the upcoming HRi Lite Membership, professionals now have a more accessible way to join HRi and begin their accreditation journey. Earning the HRi Certified^® mark represents a commitment to excellence and professional standards. HRi members can:

• Apply for HRi Accreditation and meet HRi standards.
• Earn the HRi Certified^® badge to showcase expertise and credibility.
• Secure a place in HRi’s directory, trusted by SMEs across industries.

Supporting the HR Community

HRi encourages independent HR and People professionals to become part of its growing community committed to the highest standards and dedicated to helping SMEs succeed. By pursuing HRi Accreditation and earning the HRi Certified^® mark, members can enhance their careers and strengthen connections with SMEs.

Through HRi Accreditation and the Certified^® mark, HRi continues to empower HR professionals and SMEs, strengthening trust, excellence, and growth within the independent HR profession.