An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced HR professional to join a dynamic SME as Head of HR for a 12 month fixed term contract. This pivotal role combines strategic leadership with hands-on HR operations, supporting up to 200 employees across the UK and global regions. Reporting directly to the CEO, the Head of HR will lead a small, high-performing team and play a critical role in driving organisational performance, engagement, and growth.The RoleThe Head of HR will develop and deliver a commercially focused HR strategy that aligns with the business’s values and objectives. This includes overseeing all stages of the employee lifecycle, ensuring compliance, engagement, and high-performance standards. The role involves:

Leading on HR strategy, policies, and procedures to foster a positive and high-performing culture.
Providing expert guidance on complex HR issues, including restructures, redundancies, and performance management.
Managing outsourced contracts for payroll, pensions, and benefits to ensure cost-effectiveness and service quality.
Representing HR at senior leadership meetings, contributing to strategic decision-making.
Overseeing employee engagement and development initiatives, including leadership training and succession planning.

A significant presence in the office is required to maintain visibility and accessibility, supporting the collaborative ethos of the HR team and business.Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership: Deliver and review HR strategies to align with company objectives. Drive engagement, training, and leadership development to support growth and succession planning.
Operational Support: Partner with the HR team to manage day-to-day HR activities, including recruitment, onboarding, and employee relations. Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and GDPR requirements.
Employee Lifecycle Management: Manage employee data, oversee pay reviews, administer bonuses, and ensure robust performance management processes are in place.
Budget Management: Monitor the HR budget, ensuring effective cost management across HR activities.

About YouThe ideal candidate will have at least 10 years’ HR experience, preferably in an SME or private equity-backed business. They will hold a CIPD Level 5 qualification (Level 7 preferred) and have a proven track record in both strategic HR leadership and hands-on operational support. Essential skills include:

Proficiency in HR systems
Strong interpersonal and organisational skills to manage conflicting demands and build trust across all levels.
Detailed knowledge of UK employment law and the ability to create pragmatic, compliant policies.
A confident, collaborative approach to influencing and decision-making.

Why Join?This is an opportunity to shape the HR function in a fast-paced, ambitious organisation. The Head of HR will work closely with senior leadership to drive meaningful change and contribute to a culture of collaboration, excellence, and continuous improvement.If you are a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and a passion for people, this role offers the chance to make a real impact. Apply now to join a business that values expertise, commitment, and innovation.

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