At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR and talent acquisition, shaping the people function from the ground up.
- Company: Exciting early-stage sports media and tech business redefining fan engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunity for significant impact.
- Other info: Be part of a team backed by industry leaders and major broadcasters.
- Why this job: Join a fast-growing startup and help build a thriving company culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR and recruitment within high-growth environments is essential.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 80000 € per year.
I am working with one of the UK's most exciting early-stage sports media and technology businesses as they look to hire their first dedicated People & Talent Manager. Founded by globally recognised names in sport and entertainment, the company is redefining how fan sentiment is captured, understood and distributed across football. Already partnered with major broadcasters and backed by leading investors, they are entering a significant phase of growth ahead of the 2025/26 season. This is a rare opportunity to join at an early stage and build the people function from the ground up.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the CEO and COO, you will own both HR and talent acquisition across the business. The role is intentionally broad and hands-on, spanning recruitment, onboarding, HR operations, employee experience, performance processes and organisational development. This position would suit someone who thrives in high-growth environments and enjoys balancing strategic thinking with practical execution.
Responsibilities
- People & HR
- Build and implement scalable HR processes appropriate for a fast-growing startup
- Own contracts, HR systems and employee records
- Ensure compliance with UK employment law and HR best practice
- Manage onboarding and offboarding processes
- Support managers with performance management, feedback and goal setting
- Help develop progression frameworks and career development structures
- Handle employee relations matters with professionalism and discretion
- Support compensation benchmarking and review processes
- Talent Acquisition
- Lead hiring across technical, product, commercial and operational functions
- Manage full-cycle recruitment across multiple live roles
- Hire technical talent including engineers and product professionals
- Source candidates directly through LinkedIn, networks and creative channels
- Manage external recruitment partners where required
- Help shape and strengthen the company's employer brand
- Operations & Culture
- Support wider operational and office responsibilities as needed
- Identify gaps, solve problems proactively and improve processes
- Partner with leadership on organisational design and company culture
About You
- Strong academic background with a track record of high achievement
- Previous HR and recruitment experience within a startup, scale-up or high-growth environment
- Demonstrated success hiring technical talent
- Good working knowledge of UK employment law and HR compliance
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Pragmatic, solutions-focused and commercially aware
- Low ego, high ownership mentality
- Excited by the opportunity to help build a company from an early stage
For a confidential discussion, please apply directly or get in touch.
HR and Talent Manager employer: Oakleaf Partnership
Join a pioneering early-stage sports media and technology company in the heart of the West End, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape the people function from the ground up. With a vibrant work culture that values innovation and collaboration, this role offers competitive compensation, professional growth opportunities, and the chance to work alongside industry leaders in a dynamic environment poised for significant expansion ahead of the 2025/26 season.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR and Talent Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that HR and Talent Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality! When you get an interview, let your passion for building a people function shine through. Share your ideas on how you’d approach HR processes and talent acquisition in a fast-growing startup.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a job opening that excites you, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply through our website and follow up with a friendly message to express your enthusiasm. It shows initiative!
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company culture! Understand their values and what they’re looking for in a People & Talent Manager. Tailor your conversations to reflect how you can contribute to their growth and success.
We think you need these skills to ace HR and Talent Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the HR and Talent Manager role. Highlight your experience in building HR processes and managing talent acquisition, especially in high-growth environments. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our exciting team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our mission. Be sure to mention any specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to thrive in a startup culture.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use metrics where possible to illustrate your impact, like successful hires or improved HR processes. We love seeing how you've made a difference in previous positions!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. This way, we can ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you're keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oakleaf Partnership
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the company’s mission and how they’re redefining fan sentiment in sports. Research their partnerships and recent developments to show you’re genuinely interested and informed.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your previous roles that highlight your HR and recruitment experience, especially in high-growth environments. Be ready to discuss how you've built processes or managed talent acquisition effectively.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Think of insightful questions that demonstrate your strategic thinking. Ask about their current HR challenges or how they envision the company culture evolving as they grow. This shows you’re not just looking for a job, but are invested in their future.
✨Be Yourself
This role requires a low ego, high ownership mentality. Be authentic in your responses and let your personality shine through. They’re looking for someone who fits their culture, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for building something great together.
