Head of People

  • BWD Search & Selection
  • Leeds, Yorkshire
  • Nov 04, 2025
Full time HR / Recruitment

Job Description

Are you an experienced people leader with a passion for shaping culture, supporting growth, and driving excellence across a business?

A highly regarded and well-established financial advisory business is looking for a Head of People to join their leadership team.

As Head of People, you'll take ownership of the firm's people strategy - ensuring the business continues to attract, develop, and retain exceptional talent.

You'll work closely with the board and management team to deliver a people-first culture that aligns with the firm's vision, values, and long-term objectives. This is a pivotal, broad-ranging role that blends strategic leadership with hands-on delivery across recruitment, retention, performance, HR, and staff development.

Key Responsibilities

  • Board & Leadership Support - Oversee board meetings, agendas, and actions while supporting senior management with guidance and development.
  • Recruitment & Onboarding - Lead end-to-end hiring for both fee earners and support staff, ensuring smooth onboarding and cultural integration.
  • Retention & Development - Implement strategies that promote engagement, reward, and progression across the business.
  • Performance & HR - Manage performance reviews, pay and bonus processes, HR policies, and employee relations in line with employment law.
  • Training & Growth - Design and deliver internal training sessions to enhance capability and consistency across teams.
  • Strategic Projects - Contribute to the firm's acquisition activity and other business-wide initiatives.

About You

Our client is looking for someone who combines strong leadership and commercial acumen with genuine care for people. You'll be comfortable influencing at senior level while remaining approachable and hands-on in day-to-day delivery.

You'll bring:

  • Proven experience in a management role (ideally within financial services or another regulated environment)
  • Strong HR, recruitment, and people development expertise
  • Excellent organisational and communication skills
  • Solid understanding of UK employment law and best practice
  • Experience supporting business acquisitions or integrations would be advantageous

Salary & Benefits

  • £45,000 to £55,000
  • Comprehensive benefits package including pension, private healthcare, and discretionary performance bonus
  • Some flexible / remote working offered