At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the creation of a global People & Culture function from scratch.
- Company: High-growth consumer products brand with a strong commitment to innovation.
- Benefits: Executive package, bonus, and a values-led culture.
- Other info: Direct influence at the executive level during a pivotal growth phase.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a market-leading brand while driving meaningful impact.
- Qualifications: Senior HR leader with experience in high-growth, global environments.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 120000 ÂŁ per year.
Shape the people strategy behind a global growth success story.
The Business
We’re supporting a high‑growth, innovation‑driven consumer products brand that has expanded at pace over the last five years. With operations across the UK, Europe, USA, Asia and China, and a global workforce of c.140, the business has built its reputation on exceptional products, bold thinking and a deeply committed team. As the organisation enters its next phase of international scale‑up, there is a clear recognition that people, culture and leadership capability must evolve at the same pace as the business. To enable this, the company is appointing its first Global HR Director.
The Opportunity
This is a rare, blank‑canvas mandate to build and lead a global People & Culture function from the ground up. Reporting directly to the COO and joining a close‑knit senior leadership team, you will transition the organisation from an outsourced HR model to a strategic, in‑house capability that drives performance, cohesion and long‑term value. This is not a policy‑heavy, compliance‑first role. This is about creating commercial advantage through people. You will take the energy, creativity and loyalty already embedded in the business and elevate it—introducing structure, strategy and investment that enables people and teams to thrive as the organisation scales.
What You’ll Lead
- Global People & Culture Strategy aligned to ambitious commercial growth
- Building an in‑house HR function capable of supporting a multi‑site, international operation
- Executive‑level partnership on organisation design, leadership capability and succession
- Leadership development, training frameworks and progression pathways that grow with the business
- Culture stewardship—protecting what makes the business special while enabling pace and cohesion across regions
- Fit‑for‑growth systems, reward frameworks and people data that support confident decision‑making
- Commercially grounded, pragmatic people initiatives that enable scale without unnecessary complexity
Who We’re Looking For
A senior, commercially minded HR leader who:
- Has built or scaled a People/HR function in a high‑growth, global environment
- Brings experience across manufacturing, product, supply chain or complex operational settings
- Understands how people strategy drives performance, speed and profitability
- Thrives in ambiguous, entrepreneurial environments and enjoys building from first principles
- Influences credibly at executive level while remaining hands‑on and delivery‑focused
- Is passionate about culture, leadership and development, and removes complexity rather than adding it
Why This Role Stands Out
- A greenfield opportunity to architect a global People function from scratch
- Direct influence at the executive table during a pivotal international growth phase
- A values‑led, entrepreneurial culture that genuinely believes people are central to success
- The chance to shape the future of a market‑leading global brand while preserving its identity, pace and momentum
If you’re energised by growth, ownership and meaningful impact—and want to build something rather than maintain the status quo—let’s talk. Shortlisting is underway. Discretion assured.
Global Human Resources Director in Maidstone employer: Illuminate Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Illuminate Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Human Resources Director in Maidstone
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Ace the Informational Interview
Set up informal chats with professionals in HR or related fields. These conversations can give you insider info about the company culture and hiring processes. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the role and helps us get to know you better!
✨Showcase Your Value
When you get that interview, focus on how your experience aligns with the company's goals. We want to see how you can contribute to building a strong People & Culture function. Bring examples of your past successes and how they can translate into this new role.
✨Follow Up with Flair
After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you note! It’s a great way to reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and remind us why you’re the perfect fit. A little personal touch goes a long way in making you memorable.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Human Resources Director in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Global HR Director. Highlight your experience in building HR functions and driving people strategy in high-growth environments. We want to see how your background aligns with our vision!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about shaping a global People & Culture function. Share specific examples of how you've influenced culture and leadership in previous roles.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: In your application, demonstrate your ability to think strategically about people and culture. We’re looking for someone who can transition from an outsourced model to an in-house capability, so share relevant experiences that highlight this skill.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Let’s get started on this exciting journey together!
How to prepare for a job interview at Illuminate Recruitment Ltd
✨Know the Business Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the company's history, values, and recent achievements. Understand their products and how they position themselves in the market. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your experience with their goals.
✨Prepare Your People Strategy
Given the role's focus on building a global People & Culture function, come prepared with a clear vision of what that could look like. Think about innovative HR strategies that can drive performance and cohesion across diverse teams. Be ready to discuss how you would transition from an outsourced model to an in-house capability.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Highlight specific examples from your past where you've successfully influenced at the executive level or led significant change in a high-growth environment. Use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your initiatives, especially in areas like leadership development and culture stewardship.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the challenges the company faces as it scales. Inquire about their current HR practices, cultural values, and how they envision the new Global HR Director contributing to their growth. This shows you're not just interested in the role, but also in the company's future.