UK HR Director

At Ecotone, we are a purpose‑driven company with a clear mission to propose an alternative food model that prioritizes organic and plant‑based solutions, all with the aim of protecting biodiversity. We believe that through sustainable practices and ethical decision‑making, we can contribute to a healthier planet and a more equitable future. Our commitment to human rights, diversity, and inclusion is at the heart of everything we do, as we work to create a positive impact both in the workplace and in the world around us.

As HR Director for the UK, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our people strategy, driving performance, and building an engaged, high‑performing organization aligned with our purpose and growth ambitions.

About The Role

• As a UK Management Team member, reporting into senior leadership, you will act as a strategic HR partner and hands‑on leader, overseeing the full HR function across the UK (including International Markets and central teams), while contributing to our rolling 3‑year strategic plan.
• This is a high‑impact role combining strategy, transformation, and operational excellence.
• The role could be located in Camberley (head office) or Beaminster (Tea factory).
• Reports to the Chief HR Officer (with a dotted line to the UK General Manager) & a team of 4 (2 direct reports).

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the HR function in the UK with full accountability across all HR activities.
• Contribute to Ecotone’s 3‑year strategic roadmap and business plans.
• Partner with the GM and senior leadership team to drive performance and organizational effectiveness.

Talent & Organisation

• Build a strong talent pipeline, ensuring succession plans for all key roles.
• Lead recruitment strategies and selection processes, including use of Hogan assessments.
• Drive learning & development initiatives, including delivery of the PeACE Leadership Program (MBTI‑based).
• Champion individual and team development plans.

Culture, Engagement & DE&I

• Foster a high‑performance culture.
• Lead employee engagement strategies, even in times of transformation.
• Champion Diversity, Equity & Inclusion through programs such as ImIn.
• Develop wellbeing initiatives, including the Flourish program.

Transformation & Change

• Lead major transformation initiatives including M&A, restructuring, and organizational design.
• Support the UK factory in engagement improvement and cost‑saving programs.
• Balance agility with structure—ensuring we remain fast, flexible, and effective.

Reward, Performance & Operations

• Oversee reward and recognition frameworks, ensuring alignment and gender pay equity.
• Drive performance management processes (EPC/appraisals, feedback culture).
• Own HR budgets including Labour Operating Costs (LOH).
• Contribute to compensation & benefits strategy and external partner negotiations.

⚙️ Governance & Systems

• Ensure compliance with UK employment law and health & safety standards.
• Oversee HR systems (SuccessFactors, payroll, LMS, T&A tools).
• Provide expert HR advice across all generalist topics.

Communication & CSR

• Lead internal and external communication strategies (LinkedIn, thought leadership, newsletters).
• Contribute to sustainability and CSR initiatives (e.g. partnerships with environmental organisations).

What We’re Looking For

Experience

• Senior HR leadership experience in a generalist role.
• FMCG experience preferred.
• Strong background in project management and transformation.
• Experience with HR systems (e.g. SAP SuccessFactors) and payroll.
• Exposure to compensation & benefits is a strong advantage.

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