Head of People

Head of People: A Strategic Leadership Opportunity at Babcock International

This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned HR leader to make a significant impact within Babcock International, a company dedicated to creating a safe and secure world. As the Head of People, you will be instrumental in shaping the future of one of their dynamic business units, directly contributing to their mission of delivering cutting-edge technology across diverse sectors.

If you are a driven HR professional with a passion for strategic execution and people development, this role offers a compelling platform to advance your career.

Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Strategic Influence: This is a high-impact role where you will work closely with senior leadership, including a Business Unit Managing Director and Operations Director. You will have the opportunity to influence decisions that shape a significant business sector (£400M+) and drive future growth and innovation.
• Purpose-Driven Work: Babcock's commitment to creating a "safe and secure world, together" provides a strong sense of purpose. As Head of People, you will be at the forefront of supporting this mission by fostering a high-performance culture and aligning people strategies with overarching business goals.
• Comprehensive HR Leadership: The role offers a broad scope of responsibility, encompassing the full employee lifecycle. You will lead the delivery of HR services, partner with senior leaders on strategic initiatives, drive union engagement and pay negotiations, and develop a team of HR professionals.
• Career Development: Babcock emphasizes "excellent development opportunities." This role provides a platform to hone your strategic HR skills, leadership capabilities, and understanding of complex, large-scale organizations.
• Competitive Compensation and Benefits: The "excellent salary and benefits" package, coupled with a generous holiday allowance, matched contribution pension, life assurance, access to wellbeing support (Digital GP, health checks), an employee share scheme, and professional fee payments, signifies a commitment to valuing its employees.
• Hybrid Working: The hybrid working arrangement offers flexibility, allowing you to balance professional responsibilities with personal life. The role is based in Ashton Vale, Bristol, or Plymouth, Devon, with hybrid working arrangements.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Experience Requirements: Successful candidates will require proven HR leadership experience in large, complex organizations, a strong track record in strategic HR delivery, and demonstrable experience in leading union negotiations and pay discussions.
• Commercial Acumen: The ability to deliver pragmatic solutions and possess strong commercial acumen is essential. This means understanding the business's financial drivers and translating HR strategies into tangible business outcomes.
• Navigating Complexity: Babcock operates in sectors with significant complexity. The ability to lead through this complexity with integrity and collaboration is a critical trait for success in this role.
• Security Clearance: A significant consideration is the requirement to achieve and maintain Security Check (SC) security clearance. This is due to the nature of Babcock's work in national security and defense. Candidates should be aware that eligibility may be influenced by factors such as place of birth, nationality, and residency.
• Geographical Flexibility: While the role is primarily based in Ashton House (Bristol), there may be occasional travel to Devonport, or the role could be based in Devonport with regular travel to Bristol. Candidates should consider their willingness and ability to travel.
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Babcock values difference and is a disability confident committed employer. They are committed to building an inclusive culture and are happy to discuss flexible working patterns.

This Head of People position at Babcock International is more than just a job; it's an opportunity to lead with purpose, shape strategic direction, and contribute to a company with a rich history and a vital mission. If you possess the required experience and are looking for a challenging and rewarding leadership role, this opportunity warrants serious consideration for your career advancement.