At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and operations in a newly merged, high-growth business.
- Company: Dynamic distribution company with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: High level of autonomy, visibility, and opportunity for impact.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with ongoing M&A activity.
- Why this job: Shape the HR function and drive organisational transformation.
- Qualifications: Proven senior HR leadership experience and strong generalist background.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
This is a senior HR leadership role within a growing, multi-site, recently merged distribution business. You will take ownership of the HR agenda (both operational and strategic) working closely with senior leadership to help integrate the business and build a professionalised HR function in a standalone capacity. You’ll be equally comfortable operating at both altitude and ground level: setting strategy while remaining hands-on across all aspects of HR, including recruitment.
This is a newly formed organisation created through the merger of multiple established businesses with strong heritage, ambitious growth plans, and further M&A activity anticipated. This is a unique opportunity to join at the outset of that journey - playing a pivotal role in shaping the people strategy and building a unified, high-performing organisation.
Key Responsibilities- Establish and embed a fit-for-purpose HR function, frameworks, and policies across the newly merged business
- Act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders on all people-related matters
- Lead the end-to-end recruitment strategy and delivery, supporting ongoing growth
- Manage day-to-day HR operations, including employee relations, performance management, and compliance
- Support post-merger integration activity, including input on the TUPE processes
- Drive initiatives around culture, engagement, and organisational design to unify the business
- Ensure HR practices are aligned with commercial objectives and scalable for future growth
- Proven experience in a senior HR leadership role (Head of HR / HR Lead / Senior HR Manager)
- Strong generalist background (inc. recruitment) with the ability to operate both strategically and operationally
- Experience within multi-site, operational, or product focused businesses is highly advantageous
- Demonstrable experience supporting M&A activity, including TUPE and integration
- Comfortable building processes and structure in a fast-paced, evolving, post-merger environment
- A proactive, resilient approach with the confidence to operate independently
- Opportunity to build and shape the HR function from the ground up within a newly formed business entity
- Play a key role in integrating multiple organisations into one cohesive entity
- High level of autonomy and visibility within the business
- Exposure to ongoing M&A activity and organisational transformation
- A dynamic, growth-oriented environment where HR will be central to long-term success
Head of Human Resources in Birmingham employer: SF Search Partners
Join a dynamic and rapidly growing organisation where you will have the unique opportunity to shape the HR function from the ground up. With a strong focus on employee engagement and culture, this newly merged business offers a collaborative work environment that values innovation and professional development. As part of a high-performing team, you will play a pivotal role in driving strategic initiatives while enjoying a high level of autonomy and visibility within the company.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Human Resources in Birmingham
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at SF Search Partners!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at SF Search Partners.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Human Resources in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at SF Search Partners. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to SF Search Partners and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at SF Search Partners. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to SF Search Partners's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at SF Search Partners
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with SF Search Partners.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at SF Search Partners will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact SF Search Partners and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
