Purpose The study proposes competence models for the roles of process owners, process analysts and industrial engineers based on qualitative research. Design/methodology/approach The research methodology is a combination of a questionnaire survey and interviewing in Czech companies, which develop the process approach. The proposed competence models can be utilized during business process management (BPM) implementation while appointing process owners, analysts and industrial engineers and their further development. Findings This paper emphasizes the role of human factor and presents research results concerning most important BPM roles and their competencies. Research limitations/implications There is lack of research (a research gap) in the field of BPM roles, what they do and what they should do. Practical implications A system of competence models is thus a tool for human resource management and should increase the success rate of BPM projects. Another possible utilization is in higher education in business administration. Social implications Another possible utilization is in higher education in business administration. Originality/value It proposes competence models for the roles of process owners, process analysts and industrial engineers based on qualitative research.