​A Head of HR is a senior people leader responsible for overseeing the entire HR function and shaping the organisation’s people strategy in line with business objectives. Working across industries such as professional services, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, and the public sector, they play a critical role in driving organisational performance through effective people management, culture, and workforce planning.

​

Head of HR typically sits within the senior leadership team and works closely with directors, C-suite executives, and department heads. They are responsible for leading HR teams, setting strategic direction, and ensuring all HR activities support both current operational needs and long-term business growth.

​

Key responsibilities of a Head of HR typically include:

​

• Defining and delivering the overall HR and people strategy

• Leading organisational design, workforce planning, and change programmes

• Overseeing employee relations, culture, and engagement strategies

• Managing HR leadership teams and specialist HR functions

• Advising senior leadership on people, performance, and organisational risk

• Ensuring compliance with employment law and best practice across the business

​

To succeed as a Head of HR, professionals need strong strategic thinking, leadership, and influencing skills. The ability to operate at executive level, balance commercial priorities with people strategy, and lead large-scale organisational change is essential. Strong emotional intelligence, decision-making ability, and stakeholder management skills are also critical. Successful Heads of HR are typically commercially aware, confident, and highly experienced in leading complex HR functions.

​

Career progression typically leads to roles such as HR Director, People Director, Chief People Officer (CPO), or broader executive leadership positions. Some also move into consultancy, transformation leadership, or board-level advisory roles.

​

Qualifications generally include a degree in Human Resources, Business, Psychology, or a related field, alongside senior-level professional accreditation such as CIPD Level 7. Extensive HR leadership experience is essential, particularly in change management, employee relations, and strategic workforce planning.

​

For those exploring Head of HR jobs in the UK, demand remains strong as organisations continue to prioritise people strategy, organisational transformation, and employee experience at board level. The role offers significant influence, executive responsibility, and the opportunity to shape culture and performance across the entire organisation.

​

​

​Reading is one of the UK’s leading commercial centres outside of London, offering a fast-paced economy alongside excellent connectivity and quality of life. Located in the Thames Valley, the town benefits from direct rail links into London, as well as easy access to the M4 corridor, Heathrow Airport, and the wider South East. Its position as a key business hub, combined with a strong talent pool and modern infrastructure, makes Reading an attractive base for both employers and professionals.

​

The local economy is driven by a strong presence of technology, finance, and professional services organisations, with Reading widely recognised as part of the UK’s “Silicon Valley”. Major global companies, including Microsoft, Oracle, and Cisco, have established operations in and around the town, supporting a high demand for skilled talent across digital, commercial, and corporate functions. Alongside this, a growing number of scale-ups and SMEs contribute to a dynamic and competitive job market.

​

Outside of work, Reading offers a well-rounded lifestyle with a mix of urban amenities and green space. The town centre provides a wide range of retail, dining, and leisure options, while areas such as the Oracle Riverside and Caversham offer a more relaxed, community feel. Residents also benefit from easy access to the Thames Path, surrounding countryside, and nearby destinations such as the Chiltern Hills. With its strong economic profile, connectivity, and lifestyle offering, Reading presents a compelling option for professionals looking to develop their careers within a thriving business environment.