Retail HR Director: Operations & Payroll Leader in London

SKIMS is a solutions-oriented brand creating the next generation of underwear, loungewear, shapewear, and essentials. We are setting new standards by delivering technically innovative, comfort-driven products with elevated design for everybody. At the intersection of culture, innovation, and commerce, SKIMS is a global brand redefining modern apparel. Our teams are built on creativity, collaboration, and operational excellence, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive, high-performance environment where ambitious, curious, and values-driven individuals can do the best work of their careers. As we continue to scale globally, our HQ teams play a critical role in shaping strategy, building world-class infrastructure, and driving sustainable growth across markets.

As the HR Director, you will be responsible for the hands-on delivery of HR operations. This is an operational role focused on HR administration, payroll coordination, employee relations, and the consistent execution of people processes. You will work closely with Retail and Corporate business partners to support day-to-day people matters, ensure compliance with UK employment legislation, and deliver a reliable, people-first experience for every Team Member.

Key Responsibilities

• HR Operations & Administration: Own and execute day-to-day HR operations, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and efficiency across all people processes. Manage payroll inputs, audits, and queries in partnership with payroll providers, ensuring compliance and on-time delivery. Maintain accurate employee records, contracts, policy acknowledgements, and HR systems in line with employment legislation and GDPR requirements.
• Employee Relations & Compliance: Lead employee relations matters end-to-end, including absence management, performance management, disciplinary processes, grievances, and investigations. Ensure all people practices are compliant with employment law, company policies, and best practice standards. Provide clear, fair, and empathetic guidance to leaders and employees, maintaining confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
• Talent & Workforce Support: Support retail talent acquisition from a people operations perspective, including contracts, onboarding, and compliance checks. Partner with leaders to proactively plan workforce needs, support retention, and build strong internal pipelines. Deliver a seamless onboarding experience that ensures new hires feel welcomed, informed, and set up for success from day one.
• Performance, Development & Engagement: Support the execution of performance management cycles, ensuring clarity of expectations, documentation, and follow-through.
• Culture & Values: Model SKIMS values in every interaction and actively contribute to an inclusive, respectful, and high-trust workplace culture. Inspire confidence and accountability while supporting a culture rooted in growth, care, and continuous improvement.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Degree in Human Resources Management or equivalent.
• CIPD qualification (or working towards) is a strong plus.
• 7-10 years of experience in an HR generalist role.
• Background in Retail is a must.
• Strong hands-on experience in HR administration, HR operations, payroll coordination, and employee relations.
• Solid knowledge of employment law and HR best practices, with the ability to apply them pragmatically in a fast-moving business.
• Proven ability to work independently with a self-starter, entrepreneurial mindset — you see what needs to be done and do it.
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Confident problem solver with a calm, solutions-oriented approach to complex or sensitive situations.
• High levels of emotional intelligence, integrity, and discretion.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build trust and credibility at all levels of the business.
• Passion for the SKIMS brand and an authentic commitment to creating meaningful employee experiences.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, take initiative without being asked, and are deeply comfortable owning the detail — from payroll accuracy to employee relations — while keeping an eye on the bigger picture.

Benefits, Culture and Perks

• Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
• Group Life Assurance
• Income Protection
• Critical Illness
• Pension Scheme
• Modern Health
• ClassPass