Head of HR – Financial Services

A superb role is now available for a Head of HR. The role will be working for a small boutique Financial Services business based in Central London. The business is circa 100 people and is quite complex in nature with a workforce in both the UK and overseas in differing company entities.

The Head of HR will be responsible for overseeing all HR operations both domestic and internationally. It will contribute to the levelling-up of the function e.g. improve processes, ways of working and overall improving the HR offering for the business.

This will be a broad generalist and hands-on position covering the entire employee lifecycle – recruitment/onboarding, learning and development, policy, ER, performance, mobility, visas, reward and compensation, benefits. The successful candidate will also be managing a HR Manager.

The role will suit candidates from small and complex Financial Services companies. You will be partnering high-level stakeholders and it is important that the incoming individual has gravitas, is diplomatic and able to work with a broad range of individuals. It is also essential that this person is happy being hands-on, in the weeds as well.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure all HR policies and procedures are up-to-date and comply with relevant laws and regulations in each jurisdiction.
• Oversee visa and work permit applications for staff working in different countries.
• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records.
• Identify training needs and coordinate professional development opportunities.
• Implement training programs to enhance skills and performance.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of training initiatives.
• Develop and manage a performance appraisal system that drives high performance.
• Provide coaching and support to managers to achieve performance goals.
• Address performance issues and implement improvement plans as needed.
• Oversee payroll processes to ensure accurate and timely payment.
• Manage employee benefits programs and recommend enhancements.
• Conduct salary reviews and benchmark against industry standards.
• Act as the primary point of contact for employee queries and concerns.
• Foster a positive working environment through effective communication and conflict resolution.
• Conduct regular staff meetings and feedback sessions.
• Develop and implement recruitment strategies.
• Manage the end-to-end recruitment process.
• Work with recruitment partners for time-critical roles.
• Ensure all staff adhere to health and safety regulations.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and implement necessary safety measures.
• Coordinate health and wellness programs for staff.
• Manage travel arrangements and schedules for staff traveling between locations.
• Ensure smooth transitions for staff relocating to different regions.

Requirements:

• Candidates will have a small firm Financial Services background.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, or a related field preferred.
• CIPD qualification or equivalent is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in managing a diverse workforce across multiple locations.
• Strong knowledge of employment laws and regulations in the UK and overseas.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Proficiency in HR software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Willingness to travel frequently and adapt to different cultural environments.
• Gravitas.
• Cultural awareness.
• Pragmatic and an excellent problem solver.