According to the accents in the system of managing people in the work process, there are many models for HR management. Dynamic business environment imposes a new look at the role of Human resources in achieving final goals. This is a challenge for leaders of modern organizations. During last years different ideas for new HR management model in mining companies are coming up. This new model emphasizes on the HR value proposition. Management should be directed to benefits for personnel, managers, clients, owners and society. An example for good practice in this direction is the model for management in leading mining companies. HR management via gaining trust with interested sides allows mining companies to succeed in the development and upgrading of their activity during last years. They can also maintain their good public image.

The article presents the results of a study of the new practices in strategic human resource management in the raw materials industry. An analysis of the approaches and models for adapting to the business challenges posed by the COVID pandemic is made. Conclusions have been drawn on the results achieved and the applicability of the different approaches to the stabilisation, business sustainability, efficiency, and normal running of the production process. The analyzed practices are applicable and useful in other industrial enterprises, which must adapt the work process to the new requirements and real opportunities for the work process.

The study is devoted to current economic and management issues. They are related to the need for timely adaptation of human resource management policies in the raw material enterprises in Bulgaria in the context of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19). Some theoretical and applied issues are addressed and covered together with the different economic and management aspects of the research question. The aim is to establish the impact of the COVID crisis on human resource management process and to discuss the challenges and opportunities.