Head of HR

Axon Moore; Manchester; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic organization in Manchester is seeking a Head of HR to lead the people function. The role involves developing HR strategies across recruitment, compliance, and employee engagement. The ideal candidate will have senior HR experience, strategic thinking abilities, and strong interpersonal skills, aiming to create a supported and motivated workplace environment. This position offers a competitive salary and a supportive work culture.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• Proven senior HR experience in fast-paced or creative environments.
• Experience in recruitment, policies, retention, performance management, and reward strategy.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end recruitment strategy for all levels.
• Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies and compliance.
• Drive HR projects and change initiatives supporting business objectives.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Influence and coaching

Employee engagement

Education

CIPD qualification (Level 5 or above)

Job description

I am looking for a strategic and experienced Head of HR to lead the people function in a dynamic and creative organisation.

This is a high-impact role, ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, and is passionate about creating a workplace where people feel supported, valued, and motivated. You will be responsible for developing and executing HR strategy across recruitment, policies, retention, and reward programmes while ensuring compliance and best practice throughout the business.

You will report directly to senior leadership and act as a trusted advisor to managers and colleagues, shaping the culture and driving initiatives that attract, retain, and develop top talent.

Key Responsibilities

Recruitment & Talent Acquisition

• Lead the end-to-end recruitment strategy for all levels of the organisation.
• Partner with hiring managers to attract and hire top talent that aligns with company culture.
• Develop employer branding initiatives to position the company as an employer of choice.

Policies, Procedures & Compliance

• Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies, procedures, and employee handbook.
• Ensure compliance with UK employment law and regulatory requirements.
• Advise leadership on complex HR issues, employee relations, and risk mitigation.

Retention, Engagement & Culture

• Develop initiatives to drive employee engagement, satisfaction, and performance.
• Monitor and analyse retention metrics and implement action plans to reduce turnover.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture.

Benefits & Reward Strategy

• Oversee benefits and reward programmes, ensuring they are competitive and aligned with company goals.
• Support the leadership team in annual reward reviews, incentive schemes, and recognition initiatives.

Leadership & HR Strategy

• Act as a strategic partner to senior leadership on organisational development, workforce planning, and people initiatives.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the HR team, ensuring consistent delivery across the business.
• Drive HR projects and change initiatives that support business objectives.

About You

• CIPD-qualified (Level 5 or above) with proven senior HR experience.
• Experience leading HR strategy in a fast-paced, creative, or professional services environment.
• Strong experience in recruitment, policies, retention, performance management, and reward strategy.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with credibility at all levels of the organisation.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to influence, coach, and inspire leadership and employees alike.
• Confident in shaping culture and driving HR initiatives that align with business objectives.

What to expect

• Opportunity to lead HR in a vibrant, collaborative, and forward-thinking workplace.
• The chance to shape people strategy in a business that values creativity, innovation, and its people.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Work in a supportive, in-office environment with a team that thrives on collaboration and energy.