Overview

Kepak is one of Europe\'s leading food companies with manufacturing sites across Ireland and the UK. Kepak Foods Division has developed a portfolio of brands successful in the chilled convenience and frozen meat categories in the UK, Ireland and chosen European markets for both Retail and Foodservice Customers. We have 2 manufacturing sites supported by shared services, with 500 people, aiming to become a transformed, future-proofed, profitable €0.5bn Food Business by 2030.

HR Director - Kirkham (Hybrid)

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced HR leader to shape our people strategy and influence the direction of the organisation. You\'ll work closely with senior leadership, have a genuine voice at the table, and the freedom to build and deliver initiatives that make a real difference. If you\'re passionate about creating high-performing, people-focused cultures and want to help steer a business through an exciting phase of growth, we would love to hear from you.

Responsibilities

Strategic Business Partnership:

• Collaborate closely with senior leadership to craft and execute HR strategies and initiatives that align with business goals and foster growth, serving as a trusted advisor to leaders and managers
• Spot emerging workforce trends and formulate proactive talent strategies to ensure the business is ready for the future
• Encourage leadership to embrace a people-centric approach by offering constructive challenges and insights
• Identify high-risk issues and partner with stakeholders to implement effective, pragmatic solutions

Leadership, Team and Project Management:

• Inspire, guide, and cultivate a dynamic team of HR professionals (4 direct reports) to achieve divisional HR goals
• Partner with cross-functional teams to align with business objectives, roll out HR initiatives and enhance processes
• Lead and manage HR projects from start to finish, ensuring alignment with business objectives and timelines
• Track project milestones, manage risks, and drive ongoing improvement of HR programs and systems

Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning:

• Collaborate with Recruitment to craft dynamic talent acquisition strategies that attract and retain exceptional individuals
• Initiate workforce planning initiatives to address business requirements and promote internal mobility
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion by weaving these principles into daily practices

Employee Development & Performance Management:

• Work with the L&D Team to promote employee growth, skill advancement, and leadership development across the division
• Manage performance management systems to ensure consistent feedback and coaching
• Identify and implement strategies to bridge skill gaps and boost organizational effectiveness

Organisational Development & Change Management:

• Develop strategies to boost efficiency and effectiveness of the business
• Lead change management initiatives during times of transformation
• Foster a culture of growth and adaptability, empowering the workforce to thrive through change
• Oversee integration of multi-site teams following merger and acquisition activities

Key Deliverables:

• A People strategy aligned with the Foods Division goals
• Successful implementation of the People strategy within the Foods Division
• A robust succession planning framework underpinned by a performance-driven culture
• Continuous development of a positive Kepak culture
• A high-performing HR team within the Foods Division
• Delivery of best-in-class HR KPIs for the industry

Requirements

• Several years of experience operating at a senior level in a people-focused role
• Strong background in leading management and leadership development, supporting cultural change and employee engagement
• Experience working at both strategic and operational levels to deliver outcomes
• Ability to operate strategically across the organisation and lead the people strategy in M&A opportunities
• Excellent understanding of Employment Law, HR Policy and Practice

Benefits

• Company Pension
• Further Education support
• Employee Discount Platform (WrkIt) for discounts and cashback
• Long Service Awards
• GroceryAid Employee Assistance Program for mental health and wellbeing support
• Corporate gym membership
• Subsidised canteen

Additional

This is a Hybrid role, working 3 days on-site in Kirkham, with travel as required in the UK & Ireland.