At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR operations, support recruitment, and manage employee relations across multiple sites.
- Company: Join a dynamic client in the commercial and private sector.
- Benefits: 12-month maternity cover with competitive pay and hands-on experience.
- Other info: Opportunity for continuous improvement and career growth in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on people management and organisational change.
- Qualifications: In-depth HR knowledge, UK employment law expertise, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Our client is looking for a Head of HR to support across a commercial and private business on a 12-month maternity contract starting in September 2026. This is a hands-on, operational role where you’ll play a key part in supporting the day-to-day helping guide the business across multiple sites.
KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:
- Deliver a trusted HR function across the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment, employee relations, organisational change, TUPE, performance management, HR operations, payroll and benefits.
- Provide commercial advice, guidance, support, best practice and solutions, whilst remaining pragmatic and in line with the business needs on all aspects of people management with both managers and the teams.
- Oversee HR operations, payroll and benefits administration, ensuring accuracy, compliance and the effective use of HR systems and data.
- Carry out all aspects relating to recruitment liaising with Managers and external recruitment providers, including writing job descriptions, drafting & placing adverts, CV selection, interviewing and applicant feedback.
- Define, develop and implement HR policies, frameworks and manager guidance in line with best practice and evolving business needs.
- Provide support on employee relations matters, including disciplinary, grievance and performance management processes, ensuring consistency, fairness and legal compliance.
- Work with external legal advisors on complex employment matters, mitigating risk and protecting the organisation.
- Provide focus on continuous improvement, implement changes and new processes to create working efficiencies as well as being cost effective.
- Line management of HR Administrator.
- Any other task and duty that is relevant to the HR department.
REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- In depth, generalist knowledge of HR processes and procedures.
- Good working knowledge of UK employment law.
- Excellent communication skills, both spoken and written.
- Use of HRIS systems along with analytics and reporting.
- Experience of writing HR policies.
- Experience working in a family/private office is desirable.
- Ability to be flexible within a dynamic, constantly changing and fast-moving environment.
Head of HR employer: HENI
Contact Detail:
HENI Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of HR
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in areas like employee relations and performance management.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Head of HR role. We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and connect directly with potential employers!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of HR
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of HR role. Highlight your experience in HR processes, employee relations, and any relevant achievements that align with the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our client!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this hands-on role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed HR operations and supported teams in the past. Let us know what makes you tick!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this position, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear, concise language and check for any typos or errors. We want to see your written communication skills in action!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at HENI
✨Know Your HR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your generalist HR knowledge and UK employment law. Be ready to discuss specific processes and procedures you've implemented in the past, as well as how you've navigated complex employee relations issues.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key for this role, prepare examples that highlight your ability to convey information clearly and effectively. Think about times when you’ve had to communicate sensitive information or mediate between parties.
✨Demonstrate Your Pragmatic Approach
The client is looking for someone who can provide commercial advice while being pragmatic. Prepare to discuss scenarios where you’ve balanced business needs with employee welfare, showcasing your ability to think on your feet.
✨Be Ready for Change
This role requires flexibility in a fast-moving environment. Think of examples where you’ve successfully implemented changes or new processes in HR. Highlight your focus on continuous improvement and how it benefited the organisation.