Head of HR Client Services - Corporate & Commercial
Join to apply for the Head of HR Client Services - Corporate & Commercial role at Howden, the new name for Aston Lark
Howden is a global insurance group with employee ownership at its heart. Together, we have pushed the boundaries of insurance. We are united by a shared passion and a no-limits mindset, and our strength lies in our ability to collaborate as a powerful international team comprised of 23,000 employees spanning over 56 countries.
We pride ourselves on our culture, which keeps people engaged and committed. Whether you prioritize work/life balance, career progression, sustainability, or volunteering, you’ll find like-minded people driving change at Howden.
Overview
As Head of HR Client Services – UK Retail, Corporate & Commercial, you will lead a high-impact function that shapes Howden’s people strategy. You will define the HR Client Services proposition, drive financial success and client satisfaction through innovative service design, pricing strategy and operational excellence, and ensure our services remain relevant, differentiated and commercially successful.
Key Accountabilities
* Lead the Howden HR Client Services function, taking ownership of its strategic direction and ensuring excellence in delivery.
* Provide leadership, guidance and motivation to HR Consultants and strategic partners, supporting both individual performance and team development.
* Drive the evolution of products, pricing, services and the overall HR Client Services proposition to maintain relevance and value for our audience.
* Manage and nurture relationships with key clients, overseeing service delivery and renewal processes to maintain high satisfaction and engagement.
* Take responsibility for relationship management and service delivery with key suppliers and partners.
* Partner with the Marketing team to support both external and internal lead generation campaigns that promote HR services and drive interest.
Qualifications & Experience
* Proven experience leading HR consultancy or people client services functions in a complex or matrixed organisation.
* Experience working in or with outsourcing, professional services, insurance or similar sectors is advantageous.
* Strong commercial acumen with a track record of delivering financial success through HR service propositions.
* Extensive experience in HR consultancy or people client services leadership roles.
* Experience managing budgets, pricing models and service delivery frameworks.
* Proven ability to evolve service propositions and drive client engagement strategies.
* Familiarity with marketing and sales collaboration to support lead generation and conversion.
Skills
* Leadership & People Management: Ability to lead, motivate and develop high‑performing teams.
* Strategic Thinking: Ability to shape and evolve service propositions, pricing strategies and delivery models aligned with business goals.
* Client Relationship Management: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to manage key client and supplier relationships.
* Product Development & Delivery: Experience in designing and delivering HR products and services that are fit‑for‑purpose and compliant with regulatory standards.
* Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Skilled in working cross‑functionally with Marketing, Operations, and Sales.
* Regulatory Awareness: Up-to-date knowledge of employment law, HR regulations and health & safety standards.
* Business Development: Ability to support lead generation and conversion activities.
What We Offer
* A career you define in an organization that values diversity and encourages brave new ideas.
* A supportive culture that champions both everyday moments and larger challenges.
* A commitment to making a positive difference at work and beyond.
Reasonable Adjustments
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations at Howden. In addition to standard adjustments such as software, IT and office setups, we can also accommodate other changes such as flexible hours or hybrid working where possible. If you’re excited by this role but have concerns about fit, let us know; we will assist with any reasonable adjustments you may require.
Senioritiy Level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type
Full‑time
Job Function
General Business
Industry
Insurance
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