Head of HR

Robert Half are currently working with a manufacturing business based in Gloucestershire as they look to appoint a Head of HR.

This is a pivotal, standalone role with full responsibility for the HR function. Offering a mix of strategic and operational duties, the successful candidate will sit on the senior leadership team and work closely with the Managing Director to shape and implement the people strategy.

We're looking for an individual who can act as a true generalist and can work in close partnership with the Managing Director to continue developing and embedding the people strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver the overall HR strategy in line with business goals.
• Act as a trusted adviser to the Managing Director and senior leadership team on all people-related matters.
• Lead on employee relations, including performance management, absence, disciplinary and grievance processes.
• Review and maintain HR policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with employment legislation and best practice.
• Support line managers with all aspects of the employee lifecycle - from recruitment and onboarding through to development, retention, and exit.
• Drive key HR initiatives, including workforce planning, succession planning, and organisational development.
• Oversee learning and development activities, identifying training needs and supporting internal growth.
• Champion a positive company culture and foster employee engagement throughout the organisation.
• Manage HR data and metrics to support reporting and decision-making.
• Ensure payroll and benefits processes are accurate and efficient (liaising with external providers as needed).

Person Specification:

• Proven HR leadership experience, ideally within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Strong generalist HR knowledge across both strategic and operational areas.
• Confident operating in a standalone capacity, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• CIPD qualified (Level 5 minimum; Level 7 desirable).
• Solid understanding of UK employment law and HR best practice.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills - able to build credibility across all levels of the business.
• A hands-on, pragmatic approach with a strong sense of initiative.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

• Experience of supporting change and transformation initiatives.

Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply. Rates of pay and salary ranges are dependent upon your experience, qualifications and training. If you wish to apply, please read our Privacy Notice describing how we may process, disclose and store your personal data: roberthalf.com/gb/en/privacy-notice.