Head of People

This is a pivotal appointment, acting as a strong number two to the Group People Director, with responsibility for leading People Operations while also contributing to the wider people strategy.In the short term, the focus will be on establishing robust, efficient and compliant HR operations. Over time, the role will evolve to play a key part in driving strategic initiatives across organisational design, performance, engagement, and total reward.This is a highly visible, high-impact role offering the opportunity to build a function, influence senior stakeholders, and play a key role in supporting business growth and transformation.Key Responsibilities:HR Operations & Service Delivery

• Lead day-to-day HR operations across multiple sites, ensuring a consistent and high-quality service.
• Oversee the full employee lifecycle, from onboarding through to offboarding.
• Manage employee relations, providing balanced, pragmatic and inclusive guidance to stakeholders.
• Develop and implement HR policies, processes and frameworks aligned to best practice and UK employment law.
• Lead and develop a small People team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.

Talent, Performance & Engagement

• Oversee recruitment activity and workforce planning to support ongoing growth.
• Develop frameworks for performance management, engagement, and career development.
• Support the creation of a positive, inclusive culture where individuals can thrive.

Reward & Benefits

• Lead payroll oversight and benefits administration, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Support the development of a greenfield total reward offering, aligned to business and investor expectations.
• Provide insight on market trends and support annual pay review processes.

Change, Transformation & M&A

• Support organisational design and restructuring initiatives.
• Play a key role in M&A activity, including due diligence and integration from a people perspective.
• Help embed consistent processes and culture across acquired businesses.

Strategic Contribution

• Partner with senior stakeholders to shape and deliver the people strategy.
• Use data and insights to drive continuous improvement and informed decision-making.
• Act as a trusted advisor, balancing operational delivery with strategic thinking.

This role offers a hybrid relationship with the office, however there will be a requirement for attendance in the office 3 days per week, with the focus of that being in Carlisle, Cumbria.