Job Details

Are you a people-focused HR leader with a proven ability to manage complex employee relations, drive cultural transformation, and build effective partnerships with trade unions? Do you bring a strategic mindset and a hands-on approach to change? If so, this is the opportunity for you.

Ashley Kate HR are pleased to be partnering with their Plc client on a new Head of People role. Based in Bristol - Hybrid. Salary circa £105k + car allowance and Benefits.

Reporting directly to the People & Culture Director you will be responsible for leading a forward-thinking People agenda across a dynamic business area. Managing a team of HR professionals, this role will play a key part in shaping organisational transformation, developing talent, and embedding a high-performance culture. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity at the heart of organisational transformation. Partnering with the business Managing Director you will shape and lead change that makes a difference and help create an environment where every colleague can thrive.

Head of People - About the role

• Design and deliver a strategic People Plan aligned to both business and group-wide objectives.
• Provide expert guidance on high-volume and complex employee relations matters, including casework, restructures, and dispute resolution.
• Lead trade union engagement, fostering collaborative and constructive relationships.
• Act as a senior leader in transformation projects, ensuring the people element of change is delivered effectively-from consultation through to implementation.
• Drive initiatives that improve the employee experience, from on boarding through to leadership development.
• Use HR data to provide insights that shape strategy and enable evidence-based decision-making.
• Inspire and develop a high-performing People team, building capability across all levels.

Head of People - About you

• Significant experience leading HR in a large, complex, and ideally unionised environment.
• A strong record of managing organisational change and transformation, including restructures, TUPE, and cultural change.
• Demonstrable success in managing high volumes of employee relations cases and minimising risk through early intervention and practical solutions.
• Deep understanding of employment law, HR best practice, and industrial relations frameworks.
• Exceptional stakeholder management skills and the ability to influence and coach at senior levels.
• CIPD Level 7 (or equivalent) qualification and a strategic but hands-on approach.

For further information please contact Jacqui Wall 0203 8001500

About Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies Privacy Notice.