At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategies and empower a high-performing team to drive ADF International's mission.
- Company: Join ADF International, a faith-based organisation dedicated to protecting freedoms and dignity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, international travel opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth in an international context.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a mission-driven environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: 7+ years of HR experience with a passion for empowering people and strategic thinking.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
Everyone says they want to change the world. We're looking for people who actually will. ADF International is a faith-based legal advocacy organization that protects fundamental freedoms and promotes the inherent dignity of all people.
Location: London, England
Team Overview: As the Director, Human Resources, you are a vital part of ADF International’s Senior Leadership Team. Based in London and reporting to the Vice President of Human Resources at ADF, you will serve as the primary architect of all people strategies, policies, and programs across the organization. This is a strategic, hands-on leadership role responsible for building and stewarding a high-performing, values-aligned workforce capable of fulfilling ADF International’s global mission. The role is ideally suited for a seasoned HR professional who understands the unique culture and operational context of a mission-driven, international organization and who is passionate about empowering people to do their best work in service of a larger cause.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic HR Leadership: Partner with the VP of Human Resources to develop and execute a shared services people strategy aligned with ADFI's mission, values, and long-term goals. Drive organizational design and workforce planning across global offices.
- Team Leadership & Supervision: Lead and develop a small HR team (HR Manager & HR Coordinator) by building a collaborative and high-performing culture. Set objectives and performance expectations for direct reports through regular one-to-ones and formal reviews, supporting their growth and career progression. Allocate work for appropriate coverage, model ADFI's values, and act as the escalation point for complex or sensitive HR matters.
- Employee Relations & Culture: Serve as the primary contact for employee relations, giving fair, consistent, legally compliant guidance and handling sensitive matters with discretion and pastoral care. Champion a mission-rooted culture and run programs supporting wellbeing, resilience, and work-life integration across a globally dispersed team.
- Performance & Development: Collaborate with Talent Development leaders to manage a performance framework that drives excellence, accountability, and growth. Identify learning needs and partner with managers on training, succession planning, and retention of high-potential staff.
- Collaborate with Centers of Excellence: Collaborate with Talent Acquisition and Total Rewards Center of Excellence teams. Maintain HR records and HRIS, and prepare reporting and analytics on headcount, turnover, engagement, and other key metrics.
- International HR Coordination: Provide HR support and policy guidance across international offices, adapting global frameworks to local legal and cultural contexts. Serve as lead resource on international HR projects and initiatives.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Fluent in English
- Live and work in London, UK, along with international travel up to 10% annually
- BA/BSc in Human Resources Management or a related field
- 7+ years of progressive HR experience, along with 3+ years in a leadership role
- Demonstrated experience operating as a strategic HR business partner to senior leadership in a complex, multi-site organization
- Experience with UK employment law
- Experience in designing and implementing HR strategies, policies, and culture initiatives
- Experience managing employee relations, including complex and sensitive cases, with professionalism and fairness
Preferred Qualifications:
- CIPD Level 7 qualification (or equivalent)
- Experience with European and international employment frameworks
- Valid work permit for the UK or UK citizenship required.
Director, Human Resources in London employer: ADF International
ADF International is an exceptional employer that empowers its employees to make a meaningful impact on the world through its mission-driven work. Based in London, the organisation fosters a collaborative and values-aligned culture, offering ample opportunities for professional growth and development within a supportive team environment. With a focus on employee wellbeing and a commitment to nurturing talent, ADF International stands out as a place where passionate individuals can thrive while contributing to the protection of fundamental freedoms globally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, Human Resources in London
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at ADF International!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at ADF International.
We think you need these skills to ace Director, Human Resources in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at ADF International. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to ADF International and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at ADF International. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to ADF International's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at ADF International
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with ADF International.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at ADF International will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact ADF International and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
