This article presents various ways of looking at the future of the role of the HR department in companies as well as the transformation of HR departments as a result of efforts at adjusting action and structure methods to current and future business challenges. To a great extent, assessment of these departments shall be a derivative of the understanding of the challenges they face. The author presents opinions based on both analysis of topical literature and on experience as well as observations gathered in consulting work for Polish companies over the years 1996–2010 (projects implemented within the framework of the operations of major consulting companies, including Ernst & Young, Capgemini, and the Hay Group).