HR Director

HR Director

Reading Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the UK HR strategy and oversee a team of 10+ HR professionals.
  • Company: Join a forward-thinking manufacturing company focused on people and culture.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, with 3 days in the office and occasional travel.
  • Why this job: Shape company culture and drive impactful change in a dynamic environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in HR leadership, manufacturing, and change management is essential.
  • Other info: Ideal for strategic thinkers ready to make a difference at an executive level.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

La Fosse has been retained on the search of the UK HR Director of a forward-thinking company in the manufacturing space, seeking a seasoned and hands-on professional to lead its UK people strategy. This role oversees a team of 10+ HR professionals and plays a key part in aligning business goals with effective people practices. As a strategic advisor to the UK and European leadership team, the HR Director will need to have plant and manufacturing experience, and will be responsible for driving initiatives in talent development, employee engagement, change management, and organisational design, while ensuring alignment with global HR policies.

The company operates on a hybrid basis going 3 days per week to their offices in the Reading area, or to their offices in the southern Manchester area, with occasional national and European travel involved. Having M&A experience, being used to fast-paced environments and understanding European cultures would be beneficial.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead the development and execution of the UK HR strategy
  • Guide talent acquisition, succession planning, and leadership development
  • Drive cultural initiatives around inclusion, well-being, and engagement
  • Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on all people-related matters
  • Support change management and business transformation efforts
  • Oversee union relationships and ensure compliance with employment legislation
Requirements:
  • Solid foundation of progressive HR leadership experience
  • Manufacturing experience / working in industrial facilities
  • Background in global or matrixed organizations
  • Strong track record in change management and organizational development
  • Strategic mindset with hands-on leadership style
  • Experience with HR digital tools and people analytics (SAP SuccessFactors a plus)
  • Excellent interpersonal, stakeholder engagement, and coaching skills

This opportunity offers a platform to shape culture, lead transformation, and make a real impact at an executive level. Ideal for a forward-looking HR leader ready to take on a strategic, high-impact role in a dynamic environment.

HR Director employer: La Fosse Associates

As an employer, this forward-thinking company in the manufacturing sector offers a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee engagement and well-being. With a strong focus on talent development and strategic leadership, employees have ample opportunities for growth and to make a meaningful impact within the organisation. The hybrid working model, combined with the chance to collaborate with diverse teams across the UK and Europe, makes this an attractive workplace for those seeking a rewarding career in HR.
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Contact Detail:

La Fosse Associates Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land HR Director

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the manufacturing sector, especially those who have experience in HR roles. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in HR practices within manufacturing.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and opportunities in the manufacturing industry. Understanding the unique aspects of talent management and employee engagement in this sector will help you stand out as a candidate.

✨Tip Number 3

Highlight your experience with change management and organisational development in your conversations. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led initiatives that align with business goals in fast-paced environments.

✨Tip Number 4

Demonstrate your understanding of European cultures and M&A processes during interviews. This knowledge is crucial for a role that involves working across different regions and can set you apart from other candidates.

We think you need these skills to ace HR Director

Strategic HR Leadership
Manufacturing Experience
Change Management
Organisational Development
Talent Acquisition
Succession Planning
Employee Engagement
Interpersonal Skills
Stakeholder Engagement
Coaching Skills
HR Digital Tools Proficiency
People Analytics
Union Relationship Management
Compliance with Employment Legislation
Understanding of European Cultures

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant HR leadership experience, particularly in manufacturing and change management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your strategic mindset and hands-on leadership style.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying to this role. Emphasise your experience with talent development, employee engagement, and your ability to act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership.

Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on key skills mentioned in the job description, such as your experience with HR digital tools, people analytics, and your understanding of European cultures. This will show that you are well-suited for the role.

Showcase M&A Experience: If you have experience in mergers and acquisitions, be sure to include this in your application. Highlight how this experience has prepared you for fast-paced environments and organisational transformation.

How to prepare for a job interview at La Fosse Associates

✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset

As an HR Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to align HR strategies with business goals. Prepare examples of how you've successfully implemented HR initiatives that supported organisational objectives in previous roles.

✨Highlight Your Manufacturing Experience

Given the focus on manufacturing, be ready to discuss your experience in this sector. Share specific challenges you've faced and how you addressed them, particularly in relation to talent development and employee engagement.

✨Demonstrate Change Management Skills

Change management is a key responsibility for this role. Prepare to discuss your approach to leading change initiatives, including any frameworks or methodologies you've used to ensure successful transitions within organisations.

✨Prepare for Cultural Discussions

With a focus on inclusion and engagement, be prepared to talk about how you've fostered a positive workplace culture. Discuss any initiatives you've led that improved employee morale and engagement, especially in diverse environments.

HR Director
La Fosse Associates
L
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