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 and career growth potential.
- Why this job: Shape the HR function and drive organisational transformation from the ground up.
- 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 Leeds employer: SF Search Partners
At SF Search Partners, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored development programmes and opportunities for advancement within our ambitious event services sector. Located in the vibrant UK market, we offer a unique chance to lead a forward-thinking team backed by private equity, ensuring that your contributions directly impact our success and the satisfaction of our customers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Human Resources in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent mergers and growth strategies. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re someone who understands their journey and can contribute to their HR vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around integration and culture-building. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Human Resources in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of HR. Highlight your experience in multi-site operations and M&A activity, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your strategic and operational skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you're excited about shaping a new HR function and how your background aligns with our ambitious growth plans. Keep it engaging and personal – we want to get to know you!
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In your application, let us see your leadership style. We’re looking for someone who can operate at both altitude and ground level, so share examples of how you've successfully led teams through change and integration.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at SF Search Partners
✨Know the Business Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the company’s history, especially focusing on the recent merger. Understand how the different cultures and practices of the merged businesses can impact HR strategies. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your strategic thinking and show that you're ready to tackle the unique challenges of a newly formed organisation.
✨Showcase Your M&A Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences with mergers and acquisitions, particularly around TUPE processes and integration. Share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated these situations in the past. This will highlight your capability to manage the complexities of a post-merger environment.
✨Balance Strategy with Hands-On Experience
In this role, you'll need to operate at both strategic and operational levels. Be ready to discuss how you've set HR strategies while also being involved in day-to-day operations. Use examples that illustrate your versatility and ability to adapt to different situations, showing that you can lead from the front while also getting stuck in.
✨Engage with Culture and Engagement Initiatives
Culture is key in a newly merged business. Prepare to talk about how you've driven culture and engagement initiatives in the past. Think of specific projects or strategies you've implemented that have unified teams or improved employee satisfaction. This will demonstrate your understanding of the importance of a cohesive workplace in achieving long-term success.
