Role Purpose: To lead the HR function by providing strategic leadership, governance, and high-level oversight of all people-related functions.
The Head of HR will drive HR alignment with the company's ambitious national expansion strategy while embedding a high-performance, values-driven culture across care and support services.
This role combines executive-level leadership with a hands-on operational focus, directly influencing business growth, workforce planning, and HR service delivery across new and existing regions.
Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership & Governance: - Shape and deliver the HR strategy in line with business goals and nationwide service expansion.
- Lead workforce planning aligned to growth forecasts and regional development plans.
- Champion HR's role in delivering exceptional care through strong people practices.
- Report to the Board and Senior Leadership Team on key HR metrics, workforce risks, and regulatory readiness.
Organisational Development & Culture: - Foster a culture of care, accountability, and continuous improvement across all teams.
- Oversee change management programs supporting organisational restructuring or expansion.
Policy Development & Compliance: - Oversee the design, review, and implementation of all HR policies and frameworks (recruitment, safeguarding, complaints, vetting, etc.).
- Provide high-level oversight of HIQA/HSE compliance and support inspection readiness.
- Ensure all HR practices align with Irish employment law and GDPR standards.
People Leadership: - Lead, mentor, and support the HR leadership team (HR Ops Manager, Compliance Manager, Recruitment Manager, Reporting Manager, HR Executive).
- Set departmental goals, ensure team alignment, and drive accountability for KPIs.
- Promote upskilling, performance development, and wellbeing for HR team members.
Stakeholder Engagement: - Build strong partnerships with Area Managers, Branch Managers, and Operations leadership.
- Act as a trusted advisor to senior managers on complex employee relations, succession planning, and people risks.
- Collaborate closely with Quality, Training, and Finance teams for joined-up service delivery.
Hands-On Operational Support: - Be visible and hands-on with high-priority HR cases, investigations, and critical staffing needs.
- Personally support regional launches, new office mobilisation, and strategic recruitment where needed.
- Act as escalation point for complex ER cases and executive-level staff relations.
Qualifications: - Degree or Master's in Human Resources, Business, or related field (CIPD Chartership preferred) - 10+ years progressive HR experience with at least 5 in senior leadership roles - Experience in regulated sectors (healthcare, social care, or public services) highly desirable Key Skills: - Visionary leadership with strong operational grounding - Stakeholder diplomacy and executive communication - Strategic thinking and change management - Deep knowledge of HR law, HIQA/HSE frameworks, and care sector dynamics Working Environment: - Based in HQ with regular travel to regional offices - Collaborative, fast-paced, and values-driven environment with a growing footprint across Ireland