Human Resources Director in Leeds

We are seeking an exceptional and visionary HR Director to lead and shape our people strategy at a pivotal stage of organisational growth. This is a rare opportunity for an inspirational leader who is passionate about people, culture, and performance, and who thrives on creating an environment where individuals and teams can excel.

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will provide strategic direction across all aspects of the employee lifecycle, ensuring our people practices support business objectives, drive organisational success, and strengthen our position as an employer of choice. You will champion our values, foster an inclusive and high performing culture, and play a critical role in shaping the future of our workforce.

First Response Group is not just a workplace. It is a vibrant community where passion fuels our excellence, integrity guides our conduct, empowerment shapes our successes, and a sense of community binds us together. We distinguish ourselves through the integration of cutting edge technology, a commitment to employee development, and a culture rooted in inclusivity and positivity. At FRG, every team member’s contribution is valued, and collective success is celebrated.

• Lead and develop the HR function, building strong relationships across the organisation and ensuring HR is a trusted and valued partner to the business.
• Inspire, support, and develop the HR team, creating a positive environment where individuals can grow, perform, and achieve their full potential.
• Shape and deliver the organisation's people strategy, ensuring it supports our overall business objectives and future growth plans.
• Oversee workforce planning, recruitment, talent management, succession planning, and organisational development to ensure we attract and retain the right people.
• Champion initiatives that enhance employee wellbeing, engagement, reward, benefits, and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), helping to create an exceptional employee experience.
• Provide expert advice and guidance to the Board and Senior Leadership Team on all people related matters.
• Use people data and insights to identify trends, inform decision making, and support continuous improvement across the organisation.
• Lead the development of performance management practices that encourage accountability, recognise achievement, and support career development.
• Drive learning and development initiatives that build capability, nurture talent, and support succession planning.
• Oversee employee relations matters, offering practical and balanced guidance on disciplinary, grievance, absence management, and other complex people issues.
• Ensure the organisation remains compliant with employment legislation and HR best practice, minimising risk while promoting a fair and consistent approach.
• Lead organisational change initiatives, supporting growth, transformation, and business improvement programmes.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performing culture that reflects our values and encourages employee engagement and retention.
• Review and improve HR policies, processes, and systems to ensure they remain effective, efficient, and fit for purpose.
• Manage the HR budget, ensuring resources are used effectively and aligned with organisational priorities.
• Enhance our employer brand and employee value proposition to attract, engage, and retain high quality talent.
• Act as the senior point of contact for significant employee relations matters and provide expert support to managers across the business.
• Play a key role as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to strategic decision making and helping shape the future direction of the organisation.

Qualifications:

• CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma (or equivalent postgraduate HR qualification) is essential.
• Significant senior level HR leadership experience, ideally operating at Director or Head of HR level within a complex, multi-site organisation.
• Proven experience of developing and implementing people strategies that support organisational growth and performance.
• Strong working knowledge of UK employment law, HR best practice, and employee relations.
• Demonstrable experience leading organisational change, culture transformation, and workforce planning initiatives.
• Experience of advising Boards, Executive Teams, and senior stakeholders on strategic people matters.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret HR data and metrics to inform business decisions.
• Outstanding leadership, communication, coaching, and stakeholder management skills.