HR Director

The HR Director's key focus areas will include building leadership capability, driving a performance culture, and enhancing associate engagement. You will also lead on some key change aspects. This role is offered on a maternity cover basis - c.12-14 months - start in January 2026. We are keen to hear from candidates with demonstrable tenure at a senior HR level - HR Director or equivalent. Strong experience in FMCG or similar would be highly preferable.Client DetailsOur client operates within the FMCG sector and is recognised as a large organisation with a strong international market presence. It is known for its focus on delivering high-quality products and fostering a professional work environment.DescriptionReports to the General Manager for the UK&I cluster, other key stakeholders are VP HR Europe (dotted line reporting) and the local Plant Director. Located in Maidenhead office, with weekly/bi-weekly travel to plant site in Oxfordshire, and occasional travel to Amsterdam, Dublin and other European locations as required for meetings. Is responsible for motivating and inspiring a full team of 11 HR associates (including 6 direct reports).Is a key contributor to the company's European People Strategy The HR Director UK&I is accountable for managing the HR function within UK&I organisation. The Human Resource function acts as a facilitator for the company's vision in building leadership capability within the company, driving a performance culture and enhancing associate engagement. As such, the role is responsible for developing People strategy in the country, addressing and executing various HR and people aspects as compensation and benefits, talent and performance management, employee relations, associate engagement and DE&I. This in alignment with the overall company HR strategy and guidelines set by the central HR organisation. Key element of the UK&I HR Director role is to act as a business partner to local directors/managers, advising and challenging them on HR matters. Develops and implements HR strategy (HR programs, processes, tools and models) on a local level in accordance with the global company's HR strategy as well as local business targets and goals. Partners with the executive leadership to drive organisational change and workforce planning in line with business priorities. Leads implementation of various local and/or functional transformation projects and ensures they are appropriately resourced, structured and governed. Provides direction and coaching in driving teams' engagement, talent development, performance management, organisational structures and resourcing strategies. Champions a positive, inclusive organisational culture that aligns with company values and drives employee engagement and performance. Leads local talent acquisition and development activities and contribute to broader agenda within the region. Delivers HR metrics and ensures efficient and high-quality local HR services. Provides regular reporting to senior leadership for data-driven decision-making. Manages local employee relations (unions, works councils etc.) in cooperation with the GM and Plant in alignment with the central HR organisation. Develops competitive compensation structure and benefits within the global HR programs and guidelines. Contributes to DE&I agenda by supporting initiatives that promote a diverse and inclusive workplace. Exhibits a strong focus on people development within own area and consistently improves capabilities and engagement across teams. This role is offered on a hybrid basis - typically with 3 days per week onsite.ProfileTo apply for this role, your profile will closely match the following:Demonstrable blue chip experience in HR leadership roles at HR Director level or above.Ideally this will have been gained within the world of FMCG, but the client is open to other industries that align closely with FMCG.Team leadership: Experienced in leading a team of passionate and ambitious individuals working as a team to support the business in delivering business results and ensuring the highest level of engagement and compliance.Multiple stakeholder management: Experienced in management of a complex internal and external stakeholder network with different needs and priorities.Leadership skills: Recognisable capabilities to act on parity level with the senior management team and colleagues, solid influence skills. Required to continuously improve the organisational focus on the business development agenda.Result oriented: Ambitious and excellence driven individual striving for outstanding business results with a passion for details.Communication skills: Excellent communicator, persuasive, able to operate & collaborate at different levels inside and outside an international organisation. Strong influencing, motivation, and networking skills.Business acumen: Has a high energy level, is a self-starter, brings genuine new strategic and practical insights and ideas to the organisation, able to convert chances into opportunities, but has a good sense of risk management.Charismatic and empathic: Gains respect and trust based on his/her personality with employees at all levels. Is an experienced and trustworthy leader.You will be available at short notice and able to start this maternity cover role in January 2026.This role is offered on a hybrid basis - with 3 days per week onsite. The main base will be Maidenhead, with some travel to another UK site. There will also be some European travel too. Job OfferThis role offers the following:Competitive salary.Car allowance of £9600.Eligible for the company bonus scheme.Pension - 5% employee, 10% employer.Holiday - 27 days (+3 available through holiday purchase) plus Bank Holidays.Private Medical - Single Cover AXA at this level.Health and wellbeing discounts.Private onsite gym free. xpwpeyx Flexible Benefits platform.Take the next step in your career now, scroll down to read the full role description and make your application.Desired Skills and Experiencecipd, HR director, hr strategy, employee engagement, performance culture, change, transformation, org development, HR projects, talent management, talent development,