At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and management of innovative reward strategies to attract and engage top talent.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking HR team in a strategic leadership role.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus package, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Shape the future of compensation and benefits while influencing key business decisions.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in senior reward strategy and strong knowledge of UK legislation.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional development and to mentor a dedicated team.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Compensation and Benefits to lead our reward function and ensure our total rewards programmes support business objectives, attract top talent, and engage employees. This is a senior leadership role within the UK People team, reporting to the UK HR Director.
About the Role
As Head of Compensation and Benefits, you will take ownership of the organisation’s reward strategy, leading on all aspects of compensation, benefits, pensions, and recognition. You will provide insight and advice to the leadership team, ensuring reward programmes are competitive, compliant with UK regulations, and aligned with business priorities.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing management of total reward strategies, including base pay, bonus schemes, benefits, and long-term incentives.
- Develop and maintain competitive reward structures using market benchmarking and pay review data.
- Ensure reward programmes comply with UK legislation (employment law, pensions auto‑enrolment, tax, NICs, etc.).
- Provide strategic guidance to senior leadership on compensation, benefits, and reward policy.
- Oversee employee benefits provision, including pensions, healthcare, life assurance, and flexible benefits.
- Manage relationships with external providers, brokers, and consultants.
- Analyse reward data and produce insights to inform HR and business decisions.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a small team of reward/benefits specialists.
- Support HR initiatives in workforce planning, retention, and employee engagement.
About You
- Proven experience leading reward, compensation, or benefits strategy at a senior level.
- Strong knowledge of UK reward frameworks, legislation, and market practices.
- Experience with pension schemes, salary sacrifice arrangements, and performance‑related pay.
- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, able to advise senior leaders.
- CIPD qualified or equivalent professional reward qualification highly desirable.
What We Offer
- Strategic leadership role within a forward‑thinking HR function.
- Opportunity to shape total reward strategy and influence business decisions.
- Competitive salary and bonus / benefits package.
- Hybrid/flexible working options and professional development opportunities.
Head of Compensation & Benefits employer: GS Group
Contact Detail:
GS Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Compensation & Benefits
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR and compensation field. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s current reward strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re the one they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role and highlighting how you can contribute to their compensation and benefits strategy.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that dream job! We want to see your application directly, so make sure you showcase your skills and experience tailored to the Head of Compensation & Benefits role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Compensation & Benefits
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Compensation & Benefits role. Highlight your experience in leading reward strategies and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about compensation and benefits, and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since this role involves analysing reward data, make sure to mention any experience you have with data analysis. We love candidates who can turn complex data into actionable insights, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at GS Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Compensation and Benefits, you'll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Brush up on key metrics related to compensation structures, benefits costs, and market benchmarks. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to inform decisions in previous roles.
✨Understand the Legislation
Familiarise yourself with UK employment law, pensions auto-enrolment, and tax regulations. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring compliance in reward programmes. Prepare examples of how you've navigated these complexities in past positions.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
This role requires a strategic mindset. Think about how you can align reward strategies with business objectives. Be prepared to share specific instances where your strategic initiatives have positively impacted employee engagement or talent attraction.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for advising senior leadership. Practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a past project that highlights your ability to influence and engage stakeholders.