At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the HR function, shape company culture, and drive performance management.
- Company: Established engineering/manufacturing business with a focus on growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, generous pension, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with the Managing Director and influence company culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by building HR from the ground up and shaping the future.
- Qualifications: Experienced HR professional with strong leadership and strategic skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
An established and successful engineering/manufacturing business is looking to appoint its first dedicated Head of People – an exciting opportunity for an experienced HR professional to play a key role in shaping the next stage of the business.
As the organisation continues to evolve, it has recognised the opportunity to strengthen its approach to people, performance and leadership. This is not a role where you will inherit a large HR team or simply maintain existing processes. It is an opportunity to build the HR infrastructure, introduce greater consistency and develop a culture where people understand what is expected of them, are supported to perform at their best and are accountable for their contribution.
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will have the visibility, influence and autonomy to make a genuine difference.
The opportunity
Your first priority will be to spend time understanding the business, its people and its current ways of working before developing a clear and prioritised HR strategy. You will then take ownership of a broad people agenda, establishing the foundations of a professional HR function while working closely with the leadership team and employees across the business.
Key priorities will include:
- HR strategy and foundations – undertake an initial HR audit and develop a practical, prioritised people strategy aligned with the wider business objectives.
- Culture and engagement – strengthen collaboration, communication and employee engagement, creating a positive culture built around shared standards, teamwork and accountability.
- Performance management – introduce a structured appraisal and performance management process, including clear objectives, regular reviews and meaningful development conversations.
- Leadership and management capability – coach and support managers to become confident, consistent and effective people leaders, while challenging where leadership standards need to improve.
- Accountability and performance – establish clear and fair processes for managing performance, recognising strong contribution and addressing issues where standards are not being met.
- Recruitment and talent – review and strengthen recruitment and selection practices, ensuring the business attracts the right calibre of people and has a consistent, professional approach to recruitment.
- Learning and development – establish appropriate training and development opportunities.
Head of HR in Hightown employer: Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment
Join our dynamic team in Castleford as a Service Administrator, where you'll thrive in a supportive and professional environment that values your contributions. With 25 days of holiday and opportunities for skill development, we prioritise employee growth and well-being, making us an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful work. Our collaborative culture ensures you play a vital role in enhancing customer satisfaction while enjoying the benefits of a structured work-life balance.
Contact Details:
Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR in Hightown
✨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 Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment!
✨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 Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR in Hightown
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 Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment. 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 Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment 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 Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment'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 Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment
✨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 Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment.
✨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 Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment 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 Bagnall Hopkins Recruitment and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
