At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and enhance organisational performance in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Established manufacturing organisation with a focus on people and culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension scheme, and free breakfast on Fridays.
- Other info: Join a small team and enjoy a collaborative work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping HR strategies and driving people initiatives.
- Qualifications: CIPD level 5 qualified with strategic HR leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 100000 £ per year.
- Head of HR
- Based at Stockley Business Park, Uxbridge
- Office-based role
A well-established manufacturing organisation is seeking an experienced Head of HR to join its team based at Stockley Business Park on a 12-month fixed-term contract.
This is a strategic, hands-on leadership role responsible for shaping and delivering the UK HR strategy while supporting day-to-day operations.
Working closely with the leadership team, you will drive people initiatives that enhance organisational performance, strengthen capability, and foster a high-performing culture.
This is an excellent opportunity to make a real impact within a dynamic business.
Candidates must be available to start mid-September.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and delivery of the HR strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and supporting business growth.
- Provide strategic leadership across HR, Fleet, Facilities, and Health & Safety, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery.
- Oversee day-to-day operational activities while driving continuous improvement, best practice, and operational excellence.
- Act as a trusted partner to senior leaders, providing expert advice on people strategy, organisational development, workforce planning, and change management.
- Lead the design and implementation of HR policies, systems, and frameworks, ensuring compliance with employment legislation and best practice.
- Manage complex employee relations matters, including performance management, disciplinary and grievance processes, and trade union consultation and negotiations.
- Lead strategic initiatives to enhance employee engagement, talent development, leadership capability, recruitment, and organisational performance.
- Take responsibility for organisational design and restructuring projects in partnership with senior leadership.
- Oversee Health & Safety compliance and continuous improvement, ensuring a safe and effective working environment.
- Work closely with the Finance team to ensure the accurate and timely delivery of payroll.
- Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement across the organisation.
Experience & Skills
- A strategic and hands-on HR leader with the ability to align people strategy with business objectives.
- Proven experience partnering with senior leaders to influence decision-making and drive organisational performance.
- CIPD level 5 qualified
- Comfortable managing both strategic initiatives and day-to-day operational responsibilities across HR, Fleet, Facilities, and Health & Safety.
- Experience of working in a small HR department (team of 2)
- Strong knowledge of UK employment law, employee relations, and organisational change.
- Experience working with trade unions, including consultation and negotiation.
- An inspiring people leader with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Data-driven, commercially aware, and committed to continuous improvement.
Benefits
- 25 days’ holiday
- Contributory pension starting at 5%/5%, rising with service
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free on-site parking
- Free Friday breakfast
- Hours: Monday – Friday 9 am -5.15 pm
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Human Resources in London
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at Huntress and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Human Resources in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at Huntress. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Huntress
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Huntress, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that Huntress uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at Huntress.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at Huntress.