Interim Head of Human Resources

Are you an experienced HR leader who can quickly assess business needs, build strong stakeholder relationships and lead a high-performing HR function through a period of change?

I am working with a well-established Central Government organisation who is looking to appoint an Interim Head of Human Resources on a temporary basis initially until 31st December 2026. This is a key leadership role that will provide both strategic and operational HR leadership during an important period for the organisation. Based in Birmingham, the organisation operates a hybrid working model, with employees typically attending the office 2-3 days per week.

As the Interim Head of Human Resources, you will lead the HR team to deliver a comprehensive and high-quality service across the organisation. Working closely with senior stakeholders, you will drive continuous improvement, support organisational objectives, and ensure the people agenda is aligned to both current priorities and future business requirements.

The Interim Head of Human Resources role offers a day rate of £650 per day (inside IR35). Some of the key responsibilities include:

• Leading, developing and coaching the HR team to deliver an excellent customer-focused HR service.
• Partnering with senior leaders to understand business priorities and provide strategic HR support and advice.
• Reviewing, challenging and continuously improving HR systems, processes and service delivery.
• Coaching managers on performance management matters and supporting the delivery of learning and development initiatives.
• Developing and maintaining succession plans and talent pipelines to support future organisational capability.
• Implementing and embedding new HR policies, procedures and best practice across the organisation.
• Leading on employee engagement initiatives to enhance culture, performance and retention.
• Managing HR budgets and ensuring resources are utilised effectively.
• Providing expert guidance on complex employee relations matters and organisational change initiatives.
• Building strong relationships with stakeholders across the business to support both current and future workforce needs.

This opportunity would suit an experienced CIPD qualified HR leader with a proven track record of leading HR functions within a complex organisation. You will possess strong knowledge of UK employment legislation, excellent stakeholder management skills, and the ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery. Experience of driving service improvement, implementing HR policies and processes, and developing high-performing teams is essential. It would be advantageous to have experience of working in large and complex environments previously.

The interview process will consist of a two-stage MS Teams interview, and the successful candidate will need to be available to start at short notice.

Apply now to join a high-profile organisation and play a key role in leading and delivering its people agenda through to the end of 2026.