Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the HR function, develop recruitment strategies, and enhance employee engagement.
- Company: Join a growing consultancy in the built environment and infrastructure sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus scheme, and career-defining opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of HR while working closely with the Board during a pivotal growth phase.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualified with 10+ years of HR experience, preferably in leadership roles.
- Other info: Must be a British National and eligible for UK Government Security Clearance.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced HR professional ready to lead and shape the people strategy of a growing, private equity-backed business in the built environment and infrastructure sector? We’re looking for a Head of HR to take full ownership of the HR function and play a central role in the continued success of a multi-disciplinary consultancy operating at the forefront of UK Government and critical infrastructure projects.
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to step into a highly autonomous role, where you will work closely with the Board to shape the future of the company’s people, culture and capability. You’ll be joining at a pivotal time as the business continues to scale, delivering professional services including engineering, surveying, architecture and project management.
Please note: Due to the nature of the work, you must be a British National (or dual national with British citizenship) and either hold or be able to obtain UK Government Security Clearance. You must also be able to commute to the Portsmouth office as the role will be largely office based.
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Take ownership of the full HR function across a growing team of ~60 professionals
- Develop and implement recruitment strategies to attract top talent
- Introduce policies, initiatives and frameworks to drive staff retention and engagement
- Oversee training, performance reviews and personal development programmes
- Support a positive, high-performing and inclusive culture across all teams
- Ensure robust onboarding, leavers, performance improvement and grievance processes
- Deliver clear, consistent employee communications and staff engagement events
- Provide expert HR guidance to the Board, shaping people strategy and driving business performance
- Ensure compliance with GDPR and employment legislation
- Monitor compensation, benefits, and market alignment to retain and reward high performers
What We’re Looking For:
- CIPD qualified (or working towards)
- 10+ years' HR experience, with recent experience in a leadership role
- Comfortable operating autonomously, with experience managing HR in an SME or fast-growth business
- Excellent knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills across all levels
- Confident in handling complex or sensitive people matters with discretion
- Project and change management skills to support broader business transformation
- Living within commuting distance of Cosham HQ (this is largely an office-based role)
- Eligible for, or currently hold, UK Government Security Clearance
What’s on Offer:
- Competitive salary of £60,000 p.a.
- Bonus scheme up to 10%
- High-impact role working directly with the Board
- The chance to shape the HR function from the ground up
- Career-defining opportunity during a key period of growth
If you’re a people-focused, proactive HR leader with a passion for driving change and building a high-performing culture, we want to hear from you. Apply now to take the next step in your HR leadership career.
Head of Human Resources employer: Torchlight Recruitment Solutions
Contact Detail:
Torchlight Recruitment Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Human Resources
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the HR field, especially those who have experience in the built environment and infrastructure sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the company culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and challenges in HR, particularly in relation to recruitment strategies and employee engagement. Being able to discuss these topics knowledgeably during your interview will demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your leadership experience by thinking of specific examples where you've successfully managed HR functions in a fast-growth business. Highlight your ability to implement change and drive a positive culture, as this aligns closely with what the company is looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Since the role requires UK Government Security Clearance, ensure you understand the process and requirements involved. Being proactive about this aspect can set you apart from other candidates and show your readiness for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Human Resources
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your HR leadership experience, particularly in fast-growth environments. Emphasise your CIPD qualifications and any relevant achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for HR and your ability to shape people strategy. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully implemented recruitment strategies or improved employee engagement in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your knowledge of UK employment law, project management skills, and experience in handling complex HR matters. This will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Showcase Cultural Fit: Discuss your approach to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Provide examples of how you've supported staff engagement and retention in past positions, as this is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Torchlight Recruitment Solutions
✨Showcase Your HR Expertise
As a candidate for the Head of HR position, it's crucial to demonstrate your extensive knowledge of HR practices and UK employment law. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to manage complex HR issues and implement effective strategies.
✨Emphasise Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. During the interview, share instances where you've successfully led teams or initiatives. Highlight your experience in shaping company culture and driving employee engagement, as these are key aspects of the position.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Since you'll be working closely with the Board, be ready to engage in strategic conversations about HR's role in business performance. Think about how you can align HR initiatives with the company's goals and be prepared to present your vision for the HR function.
✨Demonstrate Cultural Fit
Cultural alignment is essential for this role. Research the company's values and mission, and be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs. Show enthusiasm for fostering an inclusive and high-performing culture within the organisation.
