At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and evolve global HR functions in a dynamic, international manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join Zotefoams, a leader in cellular material technology with a strong growth trajectory.
- Benefits: Supportive culture, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Dynamic role with regular international travel and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping HR strategies that drive organisational success across the globe.
- Qualifications: Proven senior HR leadership experience in international manufacturing and strong stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
Zotefoams plc is a world leader in cellular material technology, with facilities in Croydon, UK; Kentucky and Oklahoma, USA; Brzeg, Poland; Vietnam; South Korea; Spain; and Jiangsu Province, China (T-FIT). We produce lightweight foams for a wide range of markets including sports and leisure, aviation, automotive, and healthcare. Zotefoams also owns and licenses patented technology and supplies advanced insulation systems. The Company is on a strong growth trajectory, with significant revenue and profitability increases in recent years and ambitious plans for the future.
About the Role
We are seeking a Group HR Director to lead and evolve our global people function across a complex, international manufacturing environment. Reporting directly to the Group CEO, this is a senior, hands-on leadership role responsible for developing and embedding the HR infrastructure needed to support continued international growth, organisational development and operational transformation. Based in Croydon, this role will involve regular international travel and will play a key part in strengthening organisational capability, improving consistency and execution across regions, and supporting the business through a significant period of change.
Role Responsibilities
- Lead the development and implementation of scalable HR frameworks across international operations
- Build and standardise global HR policies, processes and organisational structures
- Design and implement job architecture, grading and reward frameworks
- Lead organisational design and workforce planning activity across multiple regions
- Develop scalable recruitment, talent and succession frameworks
- Embed performance management processes that drive accountability and organisational effectiveness
- Support senior stakeholders through organisational change, restructuring and transformation activity
- Strengthen HR systems, people data capability and reporting infrastructure
- Support and influence senior leadership teams across the UK, Europe, USA and Asia
- Contribute to building a high-performance culture aligned to business growth objectives
What you’ll need
- Proven experience operating in a senior HR leadership role within an international manufacturing, industrial or engineering environment
- Strong background supporting complex, multi-site and international operations
- Demonstrated experience building scalable HR infrastructure and organisational frameworks
- Strong organisational design, workforce planning, reward and performance management capability
- Experience leading organisational change, restructuring and transformation programmes
- Commercially minded with the ability to align people strategy to business performance
- Comfortable operating within matrix and internationally distributed organisations
- Strong stakeholder management and executive-level influencing skills
What we’re looking for
- A pragmatic, hands-on leadership style with the ability to operate at pace
- High levels of resilience and sound judgement in a complex environment
- Credibility and confidence at executive level
- A collaborative approach with the ability to influence across cultures and regions
- A clear focus on delivery, consistency and continuous improvement
- Experience supporting operations across Asia would be advantageous
Why Join Us?
At Zotefoams, we believe in fostering a supportive and innovative environment where everybody can thrive. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, continuous improvement, and opportunities for professional growth and development. Zotefoams is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Group HR Director in Croydon employer: Zotefoams Plc
Zotefoams plc is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises collaboration and continuous improvement. As a Group HR Director based in Croydon, you will have the opportunity to lead transformative HR initiatives within a rapidly growing international company, while benefiting from professional development opportunities and a commitment to diversity. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to innovation and organisational excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group HR Director in Croydon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the HR field, especially those who have experience in international manufacturing. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Zotefoams and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your leadership style. This will help you showcase how you can contribute to their ambitious growth plans.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led organisational change and built scalable HR frameworks. This will demonstrate your hands-on leadership style and experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in joining the Zotefoams team.
We think you need these skills to ace Group HR Director in Croydon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Group HR Director role. Highlight your international experience and any relevant achievements in HR leadership to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for Zotefoams. Share your vision for HR in a global manufacturing context and how you can contribute to our growth.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:We’re looking for a hands-on leader, so don’t shy away from sharing examples of how you've successfully led teams through change. Illustrate your pragmatic approach and how you’ve influenced stakeholders in complex environments.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining the Zotefoams team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zotefoams Plc
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into Zotefoams' history, values, and recent developments. Understanding their cellular material technology and how it applies to various markets will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their needs.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Given the seniority of the Group HR Director role, expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in complex environments. Think of specific examples from your past where you've successfully led organisational change or developed scalable HR frameworks.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Highlight your experience in managing relationships with senior stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you've influenced executive-level decisions and navigated cultural differences in international settings, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate a Hands-On Leadership Style
Zotefoams is looking for a pragmatic leader. Share examples that illustrate your hands-on approach to leadership, especially in fast-paced environments. Discuss how you balance strategic thinking with operational execution to drive results.