At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the international HR team while enhancing operational delivery and systems.
- Company: Join a dynamic Japanese-owned financial services business with a global reach.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work three days a week in London, with a focus on collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of HR in a thriving international environment.
- Qualifications: Proven HR leadership experience in regulated financial services is essential.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 110000 £ per year.
We are partnering with a Japanese-owned financial services business to appoint a hands-on Head of HR / HR Director to lead its international HR function.
Working closely with the management committee and business heads, you will oversee HR for approximately 250 permanent employees across London and international markets.
This is an opportunity to strengthen the foundations of HR while shaping a people strategy that supports the business’s longer-term ambitions.
The immediate focus will be on improving operational delivery, systems, data and governance, developing the existing team and building trusted relationships across the organisation.
The role
You will lead the full employee lifecycle, combining strategic advice with practical delivery. Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading and developing the international HR team, clarifying responsibilities and establishing consistent service standards.
- Strengthening HR operations, including payroll, pensions, benefits, onboarding, offboarding and employee records.
- Improving HR systems, data integrity and workforce reporting, and developing a practical systems roadmap.
- Advising senior leaders on complex employee relations, organisational change and workforce planning.
- Overseeing recruitment, performance management, annual salary and bonus reviews, and benefits.
- Developing talent, succession planning and leadership capability.
- Supporting SMCR-related processes, regulatory references, fitness and propriety assessments and mandatory training in partnership with Compliance, Legal and Risk.
- Managing HR budgets, suppliers, audits and governance, providing clear reporting to executive management and relevant committees.
- Building consistent people practices internationally while recognising local requirements and cultural differences.
About you
You will be an experienced senior HR leader with a strong generalist background in regulated financial services. Commodities experience would be advantageous.
You will bring a track record of improving HR functions, strengthening operational processes and developing teams.
Experience of HR systems transformation, payroll oversight, complex employee relations and reward is important, alongside familiarity with SMCR and remuneration requirements.
Commercial, approachable and pragmatic, you will be comfortable advising senior stakeholders while remaining closely involved in delivery.
You will know how to establish priorities, build confidence in HR and turn longer-term objectives into practical improvements.
Working pattern
Typically three days a week in the London office, with greater presence during the initial period.
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HR Director employer: Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom)
Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom) provides a collaborative work environment that fosters professional growth and development. Employees are encouraged to engage in strategic HR initiatives that align with the company's goals, making it a rewarding place to build a career.
Contact Details:
Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Director
✨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 Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom)!
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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 Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom).
We think you need these skills to ace HR Director
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 Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom). 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 Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom) 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 Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom). List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom)'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 Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom)
✨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 Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom).
✨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 Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom) 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 Catalyst Partners (United Kingdom) and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
