At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead talent strategy and attract top AI researchers and engineers.
- Company: Join a pioneering tech company focused on real-world impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible work options, and growth opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a mission-driven team with a focus on high performance.
- Why this job: Shape a vibrant culture and build elite teams in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in hiring AI talent and building diverse teams.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are looking for the first Head of Talent to architect and own our entire talent strategy. You will attract and retain world‑class AI researchers, engineers, and operators who are motivated by real‑world impact. You will also cultivate a high‑performing, mission‑driven culture that scales as we grow, so our team thrives.
This is a strategic leadership role for someone who knows how to build elite, diverse teams from the ground up in high‑flux, high‑impact environments. You should join if you love composing teams, are passionate about the difference a vibrant culture makes to performance, and if in your own career you are ready to challenge yourself.
Job Requirements
- Proven skill at hiring AI talent, including research scientists, ML engineers, and infra specialists, in a startup environment.
- You have a sound sense of who thrives in early‑stage high‑growth, who does not and why.
- You have a trusted network of recruiters & talent sourcers who can deliver at pace.
- Highly autonomous, low‑ego, and aligned with Applied Computing’s mission.
- Proven ability to keep the bar high when hiring fast.
- Experience shaping culture, designing performance systems, and supporting high‑performing teams.
- The desire and reliability to own ‘everything People’ with strong operational efficacy and efficiency.
Rate of Success
- Time to fill – hitting and improving on time to fill roles – reported on a per candidate and monthly basis.
- Time to value – this is about both quality of hire and how fast they deliver value (so how well they are onboarded).
- Employee experience benchmark – part culture assessment & part overall role / career progression benchmark. This metric is reported quarterly.
Key Competencies
- Analytical: Analytical skills are essential for technical recruitment, as you need to be able to collect, process, and interpret data and information from various sources.
- Relationship building: Your competency here is crucial as you need to be able to build and maintain trust and rapport with different people, candidates, hiring managers, and colleagues.
- Communication: You also need to conduct interviews, give feedback, and negotiate offers professionally and respectfully.
Job Responsibilities
- Talent acquisition: Design and execute hiring strategies for technical and non‑technical roles, with an emphasis on sourcing exceptional AI talent across research, engineering, and applied science.
- Recruiter network: Leverage your established network of AI‑specialist recruiters to engage top‑tier candidates quickly and effectively.
- Employer brand & candidate experience: Define and communicate Applied Computing’s story and attract aligned, head‑turning talent.
- Retention & development: Implement systems to onboard, engage, grow, and retain high‑performing individuals across a distributed team.
- Culture: Foster psychological safety, high performance, and deep purpose in day‑to‑day actions and in company events such as off‑sites.
Seniority Level: Director
Employment Type: Full‑time
Job Function: Human Resources
Industry: Software Development
Head of Talent in London employer: Applied Computing
Applied Computing is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the rapidly evolving energy sector. With competitive salaries, hybrid working options, and ample opportunities for professional growth, employees are empowered to make meaningful contributions while enjoying a flexible work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Talent 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 Applied Computing!
✨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 Applied Computing.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Talent 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 Applied Computing. 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 Applied Computing 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 Applied Computing. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Applied Computing'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 Applied Computing
✨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 Applied Computing.
✨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 Applied Computing 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 Applied Computing and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
