At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR and talent acquisition, building processes for a fast-growing startup.
- Company: Exciting early-stage sports media and tech business redefining fan engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and the chance to shape company culture.
- Other info: Opportunity for career development and to work with industry leaders.
- Why this job: Join at the ground level and make a real impact on company growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR and recruitment within startups, strong communication skills.
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
People & Talent Leader: Build HR & Growth in a Startup employer: Oakleaf Partnership
Join a pioneering sports media and technology startup in the heart of the West End, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape the HR 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. Be part of a team that is redefining fan engagement and making a meaningful impact in the sports industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land People & Talent Leader: Build HR & Growth in a Startup
✨Tip Number 1
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. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for the role and the company shine through. Share your ideas on how you can contribute to their growth and culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s values and recent projects. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets them.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After an interview, send a quick thank-you note expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a simple gesture that can leave a lasting impression and keep you top of mind.
We think you need these skills to ace People & Talent Leader: Build HR & Growth in a Startup
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the People & Talent Leader role. Highlight your previous HR and recruitment experience, especially in startup environments, to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re excited about this opportunity and how your background makes you the perfect candidate to build our people function from the ground up.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. We want to see how you’ve successfully navigated high-growth environments and made a difference.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oakleaf Partnership
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the company's mission, values, and recent achievements. Understanding their unique approach to sports media and technology will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate genuine interest.
✨Showcase Your HR Expertise
Be ready to discuss specific HR processes you've implemented in previous roles, especially in high-growth environments. Highlight your experience with recruitment, onboarding, and employee relations, as these are crucial for the People & Talent Leader position.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle real-life HR challenges. Think of examples where you've successfully navigated complex situations, such as performance management or compliance issues, and be ready to share them.
✨Emphasise Cultural Fit and Growth Mindset
This role is about building a people function from scratch, so convey your excitement for shaping company culture. Discuss how you can contribute to a positive work environment and support the company's growth, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for the team.
