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- Tasks: Lead the HR function, develop recruitment strategies, and enhance employee engagement.
- Company: Join a growing consultancy in the built environment and infrastructure sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus scheme, and career-defining opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the company culture and strategy while working closely with the Board.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualified with 10+ years of HR experience in leadership roles.
- Other info: Must be a British National and eligible for UK Government Security Clearance.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced HR professional ready to lead and shape the people strategy of a growing, private equity-backed business in the built environment and infrastructure sector? We’re looking for a Head of HR to take full ownership of the HR function and play a central role in the continued success of a multi-disciplinary consultancy operating at the forefront of UK Government and critical infrastructure projects.
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to step into a highly autonomous role, where you will work closely with the Board to shape the future of the company’s people, culture and capability. You’ll be joining at a pivotal time as the business continues to scale, delivering professional services including engineering, surveying, architecture and project management.
Please note: Due to the nature of the work, you must be a British National (or dual national with British citizenship) and either hold or be able to obtain UK Government Security Clearance. You must also be able to commute to the Portsmouth office as the role will be largely office based.
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Take ownership of the full HR function across a growing team of ~60 professionals
- Develop and implement recruitment strategies to attract top talent
- Introduce policies, initiatives and frameworks to drive staff retention and engagement
- Oversee training, performance reviews and personal development programmes
- Support a positive, high-performing and inclusive culture across all teams
- Ensure robust onboarding, leavers, performance improvement and grievance processes
- Deliver clear, consistent employee communications and staff engagement events
- Provide expert HR guidance to the Board, shaping people strategy and driving business performance
- Ensure compliance with GDPR and employment legislation
- Monitor compensation, benefits, and market alignment to retain and reward high performers
What We’re Looking For:
- CIPD qualified (or working towards)
- 10+ years' HR experience, with recent experience in a leadership role
- Comfortable operating autonomously, with experience managing HR in an SME or fast-growth business
- Excellent knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills across all levels
- Confident in handling complex or sensitive people matters with discretion
- Project and change management skills to support broader business transformation
- Living within commuting distance of Cosham HQ (this is largely an office-based role)
- Eligible for, or currently hold, UK Government Security Clearance
What’s on Offer:
- Competitive salary of £60,000 p.a.
- Bonus scheme up to 10%
- High-impact role working directly with the Board
- The chance to shape the HR function from the ground up
- Career-defining opportunity during a key period of growth
If you’re a people-focused, proactive HR leader with a passion for driving change and building a high-performing culture, we want to hear from you.
Apply now to take the next step in your HR leadership career.
Locations
Head of Human Resources employer: Torchlight Recruitment Solutions
Contact Detail:
Torchlight Recruitment Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Human Resources
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the HR field, especially those who have experience in the built environment and infrastructure sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the company culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and challenges in HR, particularly in relation to recruitment strategies and employee engagement. Being able to discuss these topics knowledgeably during your interview will demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your leadership experience by gathering specific examples of how you've successfully managed HR functions in previous roles. Highlight any initiatives you've led that resulted in improved employee retention or engagement, as this aligns closely with the job requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Since the role requires UK Government Security Clearance, ensure you understand the process and requirements for obtaining it. Being proactive about this can set you apart from other candidates and show your readiness to take on the responsibilities of the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Human Resources
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your HR experience, particularly in leadership roles. Emphasise your achievements in developing recruitment strategies, employee engagement, and compliance with employment legislation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for HR and your understanding of the company's needs. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully shaped HR functions in previous roles and how you can contribute to their growth.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your CIPD qualifications and any other relevant certifications. If you're working towards your CIPD, mention this as well, along with your years of HR experience and knowledge of UK employment law.
Showcase Communication Skills: In your application, demonstrate your strong communication and relationship-building skills. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with various stakeholders and handled complex HR matters with discretion.
How to prepare for a job interview at Torchlight Recruitment Solutions
✨Showcase Your HR Expertise
As a candidate for the Head of HR position, it's crucial to demonstrate your extensive knowledge of HR practices and UK employment law. Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to manage complex HR issues and implement effective strategies.
✨Emphasise Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. Be ready to discuss your experience in leading teams, driving change, and shaping company culture. Share instances where you've successfully influenced stakeholders or improved team performance.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Since you'll be working closely with the Board, prepare to discuss how you can align HR strategies with business goals. Think about how you would approach recruitment, retention, and employee engagement in a growing company and be ready to share your vision.
✨Understand the Company’s Needs
Research the company and its current challenges in the built environment and infrastructure sector. Tailor your responses to show how your skills and experiences can address their specific needs, especially in terms of compliance, culture, and performance management.
