Head of HR

Head of HR

Oakleaf Partnership is partnering with our client, a media agency based in Central London, to appoint a CIPD-qualified Head of HR. Working at the intersection of politics, media and business, our client is a close-knit, high-performing team where people are the most important asset.

This is a hands-on, standalone role owning the full people function for a growing, founder-led consultancy, combining strategic counsel with day-to-day delivery, from drafting policy to sitting in on performance conversations. Reporting to the Director of Finance & Operations, you’ll be the go-to for all things HR.

• Own end-to-end recruitment: role scoping, talent search, candidate experience, offer management and salary benchmarking
• Lead employee relations, including performance management, disciplinary/grievance processes and coaching line managers, in line with the ACAS Code
• Maintain full compliance with UK employment law, GDPR and HR best practice, keeping policies and the handbook current
• Design and oversee performance, promotion and pay review processes
• Partner with leadership on client resourcing and utilisation reporting
• Champion employee wellbeing and engagement, and help evolve the employer brand
• Oversee health and safety policy and risk assessments with the office manager

Essential

• Strong standalone HR generalist experience, ideally at Head of HR/senior HR manager level
• Track record in small or mid-sized businesses, ideally in a standalone HR role
• Confident, up-to-date knowledge of UK employment law and complex ER case management
• Practical, solutions-oriented approach; strong stakeholder and written communication skills
• Experience in a PR, public affairs, communications or professional services/consultancy environment, ideally with a trusted network or working in a founder-led business

Highly Desirable

• Understanding of consultancy commercials (fee earning, utilisation, revenue-linked planning)
• CIPD level 5 qualified (or equivalent)
• Experience with HR tech such as CharlieHR and Team Tailor

25 days’ leave plus bank holidays, pension, discretionary bonus, enhanced maternity/paternity pay, private health insurance, cycle to work scheme, and hybrid working (Mon-Wed in office).

Applications will be reviewed week commencing 31st August.