Head of HR​/Generalist - Investment Banking

We are seeking an experienced, hands‑on HR Director / Head of HR to lead the UK HR function for a mid‑market international investment bank. This is a broad, generalist role that combines strategic partnership with senior leadership and significant day‑to‑day operational delivery.

You will provide high‑quality HR leadership across the full employee lifecycle while helping to build a centre of excellence. The role reports to the Global Head of HR and works closely with senior business leaders, including European leadership.

• Lead the end‑to‑end annual compensation review process, incorporating market data, performance metrics and business indicators
• Oversee talent acquisition (lateral hiring and early careers programmes), working with agencies and internal stakeholders
• Manage employee relations matters with sound judgement and appropriate escalation
• Own the full employee lifecycle: onboarding, probation, contracts, visa/work authorisation support, offboarding and exit interviews
• Execute training, performance management and related people processes
• Mentor and develop a small local HR team
• Support global initiatives (engagement, wellness, employer branding, etc.)
• Provide ad‑hoc reporting, HRIS project support and regulatory exam management (e.g. CISI)
• Act as a credible advisor and challenger to senior leaders in a fast‑paced, matrixed environment

• At least 10 years' HR experience, including a minimum of 5 years supporting a global financial services business
• Candidates must be from from mid‑market or smaller investment banks / corporate finance advisory firms (candidates from highly siloed, large bulge‑bracket HR functions are unlikely to be the right fit)
• Proven hands‑on experience across talent acquisition, compensation, employee relations, learning & development and the full employee lifecycle
• Comfortable operating in ambiguity, "rolling up your sleeves" and delivering both strategic insight and detailed execution
• Strong data‑driven approach with excellent Excel and PowerPoint skills
• Ability to build credibility quickly with senior stakeholders and mentor a developing team
• CIPD desirable but not essential

This is a genuinely broad and hands‑on Head of HR role. You will be expected to lead strategically while remaining close to the detail and day‑to‑day delivery.