ROLE OVERVIEW
The Head of HR is a key operational leader responsible for overseeing the daily execution of HR functions and initiatives to ensure smooth, efficient, and compliant HR operations. The role encompasses a mix of strategic and operational priorities including employee reward, career progression and promotion, employee engagement, employee relations, training & development, performance management and policy development. The Head of HR works closely with the HR Director to support the delivery strategy and foster a collaborative and positive workplace environment.
Throughout the course of this FTC the Head of HR will be expected to deputise for the HR Director during a planned period of sick leave (expected to be 3 months) and we would therefore like someone with partnership experience and, preferably, Partner HR experience (i.e. familiarity with an LLP Agreement and reward for Equity Partners). The key responsibilities for the role are set out below and we would highlight the following as priority areas:
* Team management and leadership. In particular managing and supporting HR Business Partners (one of which is on a development plan for promotion to HRBP)
* Supervising/overseeing payroll and managing the Salco annual review process alongside Financial Controller (salary and bonus review 1 April 2026)
* Managing and leading April 2026 partner promotions (to salaried partner and Equity Partner)
* Embedding Career Frameworks
* Working with the CFOO to evolve Reward Strategy (Salco and Remco)
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
operation HR leadership
* Leading the HR function with responsibility for HRBP, HR Advisor, HR Assistant, Reward & Benefits Advisor and Early Careers Talent Acquisition Manager.
* Managing day-to-day HR operations, including onboarding, performance management, and employee offboarding.
* Ensure the consistent implementation of HR policies and procedures across the firm.
* Line manages and guide HR team members to ensure high performance and adherence to best practices.
* Employee Relations and Engagement - strategic partnership with HoDs to address issues and feedback from employee engagement survey, delegating to team as appropriate.
* Support the HR Director in developing and implementing employee engagement initiatives.
* Collaborate with other senior members of CMT to ensure effective and efficient value add service to departments.
* Promote a culture of respect, inclusion, and collaboration within the firm.
reward and benefits
* Manage Reward & Benefits Advisory to ensure salaries and benefits offered are competitive and appropriate for the firm. Liasing with finance on budget and productivity reviews.
* Lead and manage Salco alongside Chair.
* Lead and manage annual renewals with support from Reward & Benefits Advisor (Life Assurance, Group PHI and income protection).
* Supervise pension governance.
career development
* Support the Chair of Salco to conduct annual salary and bonus reviews at the firm for all employees.
* Ensure annual benchmarking process and appropriate data to inform decision making for Salco and HoDs.
* Have oversight in conjunction with the HR Business Partner and HR Advisor of Career progression and other annual promotions. Coaching managers to enable them to have the confidence and skills to proactively manage people and effectively respond to issues.
* Support the evolution of the performance appraisal processes and employee development plans, making recommendations and liaising with HoDs as appropriate to evolve/improve.
* Promote and evolve competency frameworks.
* Develop L&D capacity to facilitate training sessions and workshops to address skills gaps and improve performance.
* Monitor probation reviews, appraisals, and performance improvement plans, providing support with team as needed.
Compliance and Policy Implementation
* Ensure HR activities comply with employment law, regulations, and internal policies.
* Support audits and ensure accurate maintenance of employee records.
* Update and communicate HR policies as required, ensuring clarity and accessibility for all employees.
Recruitment and Onboarding
* Work with Talent Acquisition to ensure a seamless onboarding experience for new hires, providing necessary training and resources.
* Promote the Talent Acquisition team to ensure appropriate engagement with the business at the right time with proper workforce planning and recruitment strategies.
HR Systems and Data Management
* Oversee the maintenance and accuracy of HR systems and records.
* Prepare and analyse HR reports (e.g., turnover, absenteeism) to provide insights for management.
* Leverage HR technology to enhance operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making.
* Compensation and Benefits Administration
* Administer payroll, benefits, and employee perks in collaboration with the HR team.
* Address employee inquiries regarding compensation, benefits, and entitlements.
* Ensure accuracy in reporting and compliance with payroll-related regulations.
Education and Experience
* Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
* CIPD qualified.
* 8 years + of HR experience, with at least 2 years in a managerial or senior HR role.
* Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment is highly desirable.
Skills and Competencies
* Strong understanding of HR policies, employment laws, and compliance requirements.
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
* Proven ability to manage multiple tasks with attention to detail and deadlines.
* Proficient in HR systems (HRIS) and Microsoft Office Suite.
* Problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills with a focus on practical solutions.
Key Attributes
* Hands-on, detail-oriented, and operationally focused.
* Proactive with a continuous improvement mindset.
* Strong team player with a collaborative approach.
* Empathetic and approachable, with a passion for supporting employees and fostering a positive workplace culture.