People & Culture Director - ref. g69706403

About Our Client

A $250M revenue company with circa. 300 employees, owned by a UK-based private equity firm.Location: Head office in Bella Vista, Sydney, with a highly decentralised workforce across Australia, New Zealand, and Europe.Key Company Information and Challenges:

1. Acquisitions and Decentralisation:

• Recent acquisitions in Queensland, Western Australia, and New Zealand have increased headcount but decentralised operations.
• 2/3 of the workforce are blue-collar employees in manufacturing and distribution.

1. Growth Agenda:

• Aims to be a Tier 1 supplier and expand its market share globally (already a tier 1 supplier in the UK).
• Targets over 10% annual growth, requiring enhanced HR systems and processes to support scaling.

1. Cultural and Operational Challenges:

• Maintaining an inclusive culture across geographically dispersed sites.
• Addressing engagement challenges in a multi-generational, blue-collar workforce.
• Aligning newly acquired companies to corporate HR frameworks and values.

Job Description

Reporting into the Managing Director, 1 direct report (HR Advisor). Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic and Operational HR Leadership:

• Partner with the CEO, board members, and site leaders to align HR initiatives with business objectives.
• Drive organisational transformation, including leadership development programmes and HR system integrations.

1. Talent Management:

• Manage end-to-end talent processes, including hiring, leadership training, and career progression frameworks.
• Address people challenges in a predominantly blue-collar workforce.

1. Cultural Integration:

• Ensure cultural alignment across acquired businesses while preserving company values.
• Support initiatives such as the "Culture Club" for employee engagement.

1. Employee Relations and Day-to-Day HR Management:

• Address operational HR needs, including policy updates and multi-skilling workforce initiatives.

Solve complex ER issues within manufacturing and distribution environments.

The Successful Applicant

Role Requirements:

• Experience:
• HR leadership in a blue-collar or manufacturing environment.
• Proven track record of managing HR in private equity or multinational organisations.
• Experience with large-scale acquisitions and integrations.
• Skills:
• Strategic mindset with the ability to execute operational tasks.
• High emotional intelligence (EQ) and strong influencing skills.
• Comfort working in a decentralised, fast-paced environment (happy to travel).

What's on Offer

Package and Benefits:

• Remuneration: $220-250k package, including super and 20% annual bonus.
• Benefits: Hybrid working model (3-4 days in-office, 1-2 days remote), birthday leave, and a gardening day (Christmas Eve). 4 weeks annual leave + public holidays.