Objective: The main objective of the article was to investigate the influence of top management on HR professionals’ career progression towards boardroom positions and how HR professionals can play a key role in the board to secure sustainable development goals. Theoretical Framework: Two main theoretical frameworks, i.e. Agency theory of Jensen and Meckling (1976) and the upper-echelons theory of Hambrick and Mason (1984) were presented concerning the significance of HR professionals on board and the significance of the top management's influence on HR professionals to gain a board seat. Method: Reviewing prior literature was the approach employed in this study. The primary sources of information were journal articles in Human Resources Management and Management. Results and Discussion: The study delves into the challenges HR professionals encounter, specifically in their pursuit of boardroom positions and the strategies they can employ to secure a seat through top management influence. Research Implications: The study will enable academia, and professionals to understand the obstacles and approaches to obtaining TMT influence on board nominations, especially for HR professionals, as well as the manner HR may contribute to achieving the SDGs. Originality/Value: According to the author’s assessment of the literature, this paper is the first to examine how top management impacts HR professionals' career trajectories, HR's future, and its potential to contribute to sustainable development goals (SDGs).
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