At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and develop a small team to support growth.
- Company: Established organisation in the property and services sector.
- Benefits: Up to £80K salary, company car, 26 days holiday, and private healthcare.
- Other info: Hands-on role with opportunities for professional development and influence at senior levels.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on people strategy during an exciting growth phase.
- Qualifications: Proven HR experience, CIPD Level 5, and strong employee relations skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Ringwood, Hampshire (onsite, 5 days per week)
Contract: Permanent, full time
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9.00-5.30, Friday 9.00-5.00
Package: Up to £80K basic plus company car or car allowance and an extensive benefits package
The opportunity
An established, growing organisation within the property and services sector is entering a new phase of development and is now seeking a Head of HR to lead its people agenda. This is a pivotal role, reporting directly to the Managing Director and working closely with the senior leadership team. You'll be responsible for shaping and delivering a people strategy that supports ambitious growth plans, while staying closely connected to the realities of the business and its people.
This is not a role purely focused on strategy, nor is it solely operational. The organisation is looking for a senior HR leader who enjoys operating in both spaces - setting direction, building capability and credibility, and remaining hands-on with complex people matters where needed. You'll have the opportunity to build and lead a small HR team, embedding a practical, trusted and commercially minded HR function that genuinely partners the business.
What you'll be doing
- Partnering with the Managing Director and senior leaders to shape and deliver the people strategy
- Leading and developing a small HR team
- Providing pragmatic, confident advice on complex employee relations matters
- Supporting managers across the business with guidance, coaching and development
- Overseeing the full HR lifecycle, from recruitment and talent through to reward, learning and engagement
- Ensuring policies, processes and ways of working are fit for a growing, multi-site organisation
- Aligning local HR activity with wider group frameworks and initiatives
- Keeping the organisation compliant and up to date with UK employment legislation
The role is head office based, with occasional travel to other sites as required.
About you
You'll be an experienced, hands-on HR leader who is comfortable operating at senior level while remaining close to the detail. You're likely to bring:
- Proven experience in a growing, multi-site organisation
- A strong generalist background covering all areas of HR
- Deep expertise in employee relations, with the confidence to manage complex cases pragmatically
- Experience supporting managers who operate in standalone roles
- A track record of leading and developing HR teams
- The credibility and judgement to influence senior leaders and challenge constructively
- Up-to-date knowledge of UK employment legislation and best practice
- CIPD Level 5 (or equivalent) is essential. Experience with psychometrics (such as SHL or Saville Wave) would be an advantage.
- A full UK driving licence is required.
What's on offer
- Competitive basic salary
- Company car or car allowance
- 26 days' holiday plus bank holidays, with an additional birthday day off
- Private healthcare and health screening
- Pension contribution and life assurance
- Investment in professional development and training
- Reimbursement of professional memberships
- Employee assistance programme and additional reward benefits
This is an excellent opportunity for a senior HR professional who enjoys building strong relationships, influencing at the top table and making a tangible impact during a period of growth.
Head of Human Resources in Southampton employer: HR Heads
Join a dynamic and growing organisation in Ringwood, Hampshire, where you will play a crucial role as the Head of Human Resources. With a competitive salary package, extensive benefits, and a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development, this is an excellent opportunity for HR professionals looking to make a meaningful impact while working closely with senior leadership. The company fosters a collaborative environment, ensuring that your contributions are valued and that you have the resources to thrive in your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Human Resources in Southampton
✨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 new 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 culture and values. This will help you tailor your responses and show how you can align with their people strategy. Plus, it’ll make you stand out as someone who genuinely cares about the organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up! Be proactive and reach out directly to companies you admire, like us at StudySmarter. Express your interest in potential HR roles and showcase what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. It’s a simple gesture that shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Human Resources in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Head of HR role. Highlight your hands-on experience in both strategic and operational HR, as well as your ability to manage complex employee relations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share examples of how you've successfully led HR teams and influenced senior leaders in previous positions.
Showcase Your Knowledge:Demonstrate your up-to-date knowledge of UK employment legislation and best practices in your application. This will show us that you’re not just experienced but also current in your field.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at HR Heads
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest UK employment legislation and best practices. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just a strategic thinker but also someone who understands the nitty-gritty of HR.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed complex employee relations or led an HR team. This will help demonstrate your hands-on experience and ability to operate at both strategic and operational levels.
✨Connect with the Business
Research the organisation's current challenges and growth plans. Be ready to discuss how you can align the people strategy with their business objectives, showing that you’re not just a fit for the role but also genuinely interested in their success.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions for the interviewers about their people strategy and how they envision the HR function evolving. This shows your engagement and helps you assess if the company culture aligns with your values.