About Our Client
Our client is a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation operating across the UK, with ambitious growth plans for the coming years. As they enter this exciting phase of development, they are seeking an experienced Head of People and Culture to lead their people strategy and foster an inclusive, high-performance culture that will drive business success.
Role Overview
The Head of People and Culture will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive people strategies that align with business objectives and enhance organisational effectiveness. This senior leadership role will oversee all aspects of the employee lifecycle and play a pivotal role in shaping company culture, driving engagement, and ensuring the organisation attracts, develops, and retains top talent in the UK market.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
* Develop and execute a progressive people strategy that supports business goals and enhances organisational capabilities
* Serve as a trusted advisor to the Executive Team on all people-related matters
* Lead the People and Culture team, providing guidance, development, and support
* Contribute to business planning and organisational design initiatives
* Manage the people and culture budget efficiently
Culture and Employee Experience
* Shape and evolve the organisational culture to reflect company values and support strategic objectives
* Design and implement employee engagement initiatives that foster a positive workplace environment
* Develop effective internal communications strategies to promote transparency and collaboration
* Lead diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes to ensure an inclusive workplace
* Implement wellbeing initiatives aligned with UK best practices
Talent Management
* Design and oversee talent acquisition strategies to attract top talent in competitive UK markets
* Develop comprehensive onboarding programmes that accelerate new hire integration
* Create career development frameworks and succession planning processes
* Implement effective performance management systems that drive accountability and recognition
* Design learning and development initiatives that enhance capabilities and support career progression
Reward and Recognition
* Develop competitive and equitable compensation and benefits structures aligned with UK market practices
* Design incentive programmes that motivate high performance and retention
* Ensure compliance with UK employment legislation regarding pay and benefits
* Implement meaningful recognition programmes that celebrate achievements and reinforce values
* Regularly benchmark compensation against industry standards to maintain competitiveness
UK Employment Law and Compliance
* Ensure all people policies and practices comply with UK employment legislation and regulations
* Stay abreast of changes to UK employment law and implement necessary policy updates
* Manage employee relations matters in accordance with UK employment practices
* Oversee GDPR compliance for all people-related data
* Provide guidance on complex employment matters, including restructuring and redundancy processes
Analytics and Digital Transformation
* Implement HRIS and people analytics systems to enhance data-driven decision making
* Develop meaningful people metrics and reporting frameworks
* Lead digital transformation initiatives within the People function
* Utilise workforce analytics to inform strategic planning and resource allocation
* Drive continuous improvement of HR processes and systems
Qualifications and Experience
Essential Experience
* 10+ years of progressive HR experience with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role
* Demonstrated success in developing and implementing people strategies that drive business results
* Strong understanding of UK employment law and best practices
* Experience leading organisational change and transformation initiatives
* Track record of building and developing high-performing HR teams
* Experience designing and implementing talent management frameworks
* Knowledge of HRIS systems and people analytics
Desirable Experience
* Experience working in similar industry sectors
* International HR experience, particularly across Europe
* Experience working in scaling organisations or managing through significant growth
* Change management certification or expertise
* Experience with mergers and acquisitions from a people perspective
Education and Certifications
* Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, Psychology or related field
* CIPD qualification (Level 7 preferred)
* Additional relevant certifications (e.g., coaching, psychometric assessment, change management)
Skills and Competencies
* Strategic thinking and business acumen
* Excellent leadership and team development capabilities
* Strong influencing and stakeholder management skills
* Commercial awareness and financial literacy
* Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities
* Problem-solving and analytical thinking
* Change management expertise
* Resilience and adaptability
* Innovative mindset with ability to challenge traditional approaches
What Our Client Offers
* Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package aligned with UK standards
* Performance-based bonus scheme
* Flexible working arrangements
* Private medical insurance and enhanced pension contributions
* Professional development and CIPD membership support
* 25+ days annual leave plus UK bank holidays
* Wellbeing programmes and employee assistance services
* Career progression opportunities in a growing organisation