At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR for a multi-billion dollar FMCG business across Europe.
- Company: Global household and personal care group with trusted brands.
- Benefits: Career-defining opportunity with strong growth and investment.
- Other info: Confidential search; reach out directly for this unique opportunity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in international, multi-site FMCG HR leadership required.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
Are you ready to become the trusted HR voice for a multi-billion dollar, FMCG business, right at the heart of its European operation? I'm working on a HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL search for a European HR Director for a hugely successful global household and personal care group, with well-known brands sold in over 130 markets worldwide. This is a genuinely rare opportunity. Confidentiality is critical, but here's what I can share.
THE BUSINESS
- Global, multi-billion dollar, and growing fast
- Eight sites across Europe, including the UK, France and Germany
- UK is the largest part of the European operation; Germany is small but growing quickly
- Strong financial performance, an active M&A pipeline, and fresh investment into manufacturing infrastructure
- Entrepreneurial, pragmatic, low hierarchy. People are trusted to own problems, not hand them off
THE ROLE
- European HR Director, covering the full region with broader international interaction
- Reports into the US, working closely day to day with the European General Manager, based in France
- Based in Kent, South East England, close to a UK manufacturing site that runs 24/7 on a four-on-four-off shift pattern, so visibility with factory teams matters
- Leading a broad generalist HR team, an HR Manager, HR Officers, payroll and junior support
- Regular travel to France and Germany, with occasional US trips, manageable for someone with a young family
WHAT AM I LOOKING FOR?
- A commercially minded, credible and hands-on HR leader
- Someone equally comfortable in the boardroom and on the factory floor
- International, multi-site FMCG experience is essential
- Someone who thrives on ambiguity, exercises strong judgement and builds trust fast, this business relies on its HR leadership to just get things done
- An approachable leadership style. The philosophy here is simple: treat people how you'd want to be treated
WHY?
This is a genuinely career-defining opportunity to lead HR for one of the most trusted and highest performing regions within a major global FMCG business, at a moment of real growth and investment. Given the sensitivity of this search, I'd encourage suitable candidates to reach out directly and discreetly rather than apply publicly. I'm also keen to hear from other outstanding European HR leaders in FMCG, even if the timing isn't right for this specific role.
Email: We look forward to receiving your application for this exciting new vacancy!
The Advocate Group is a leading recruitment partner, based in the UK, to the FMCG and consumer product sectors. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age. By applying for this role, you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy, which can be found on our website. Please note that The Advocate Group is acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy.
European HR Director in Maidstone employer: Advocate Group
Advocate Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. As an Italian-Speaking National Account Manager, you will benefit from excellent career development opportunities while working in a hybrid role that allows for flexibility. Located in a vibrant market, the company prioritises employee growth and provides a platform for meaningful contributions to the success of the Amazon account.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land European HR Director in Maidstone
✨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!
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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 Advocate Group!
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We think you need these skills to ace European HR Director in Maidstone
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 Advocate Group. 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 Advocate Group 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 Advocate Group. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Advocate Group'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 Advocate Group
✨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 Advocate Group.
✨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 Advocate Group 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.
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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 Advocate Group and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
