At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR and talent acquisition, building processes for a fast-growing sports media startup.
- Company: Exciting early-stage sports media and tech company redefining fan engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and the chance to shape company culture.
- Other info: Opportunity for significant career growth and to build a team from the ground up.
- Why this job: Join at an early stage to make a real impact on people and talent strategies.
- 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
For a confidential discussion, please apply directly or get in touch.
HR and Talent Manager in London employer: Oakleaf
Join a pioneering sports media and technology company in the heart of the West End, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape the HR and talent 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 as the company prepares for significant expansion ahead of the 2025/26 season.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR and Talent Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect 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 skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your previous HR successes, especially in high-growth environments. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings; reach out to companies you admire and express your interest. Sometimes, creating your own opportunity is the best way to land the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace HR and Talent Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the HR and Talent Manager role. Highlight your experience in building HR processes and managing talent acquisition, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your achievements in high-growth environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're excited about this opportunity. Share your passion for sports media and technology, and how your background aligns with our mission. Keep it concise but engaging – we want to see your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Skills:In your application, don’t forget to highlight your knowledge of UK employment law and HR compliance. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so any relevant certifications or training should definitely be included.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy and straightforward – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oakleaf
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the company's mission, values, and recent developments. Understanding how they capture and distribute fan sentiment in sports media will show your genuine interest and help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Showcase Your HR Expertise
Be ready to discuss your previous HR experiences, especially in high-growth environments. Prepare specific examples of how you've built HR processes or managed talent acquisition, as this role requires a hands-on approach to shaping the people function.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
This position is about balancing strategy with execution. Think of ways you can contribute to organisational development and culture. Be prepared to share ideas on how to implement scalable HR processes that fit a fast-paced startup environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the company’s growth phase. Inquire about their vision for the HR function and how they see it evolving as they scale. This shows you're not just interested in the job, but also in contributing to their long-term success.
