Head of HR

MSI - Defence Systems Limited; Norwich; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence systems company in Norwich is seeking a Head of Human Resources to shape HR strategy and drive employee engagement. The role requires a proven HR leader with experience in enhancing workplace culture and compliance with UK laws. Responsibilities include developing policies, advising senior leadership, and managing HR functions effectively. Attractive benefits include compressed hours and a comprehensive health plan.

Benefits

Pension scheme

Compressed working hours

Gym discount

Shopping rewards

Qualifications

• Proven HR leadership experience with a strong track record in both strategic planning and operational delivery.
• In-depth knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop HR teams effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of people policies and frameworks aligned with business goals.
• Act as a strategic advisor on all HR matters to senior leadership.
• Champion initiatives that support an inclusive, high-performance workplace.

Skills

HR leadership experience

UK employment law knowledge

Interpersonal skills

Strategic planning

Operational delivery

Job description

HOURS: Compressed hours/ 37 ½ hours per wk (Mon – Thurs 0815 – 1700/ Fri 0815 – 1245)

DIRECT REPORTS:HR and Talent Acquisition

**PLEASE NOTE: All Applications will be reviewed after 23rd September**

About the role:

Are you a strategic HR leader ready to make a real impact? We are looking for a Head of Human Resources to lead and shape our HR strategy across our business.

In this pivotal role, you’ll take ownership of the entire HR function—supporting and guiding everything from recruitment and employee relations to performance management and compliance. You’ll develop and implement policies, processes, and systems that ensure a consistent approach to HR across the organisation.

This role is not just about the day-to-day HR operations. We’re looking for someone who can also partner with senior leadership to drive a positive culture, boost employee engagement, and deliver a long-term people strategy that supports our business goals.

The key responsibilities will include:

• Shaping and implementing HR strategy – Lead the development of people policies and frameworks aligned with business goals and current legislation.
• Partnering with senior leadership – Act as a strategic advisor on all HR matters, contributing to organisational planning and transformation.
• Driving employee engagement and culture – Champion initiatives that support an inclusive, high-performance, and values-driven workplace.
• Overseeing performance management and succession planning – Ensure effective processes are in place to build capability and support career progression throughout the business.
• Ensuring compliance and managing employee relations – Navigate complex employee matters and ensure HR practices meet UK employment law standards.
• Leading and developing the HR team – Inspire, support, and grow a high-performing HR function.

About the person:

• Proven HR leadership experience with a strong track record in both strategic planning and operational delivery.
• In-depth knowledge of UK employment law, HR best practices, and compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop HR teams effectively.
• Experience advising senior leadership on strategic HR and organisational challenges.
• Skilled in managing employee relations, including disciplinaries, grievances, and change management.
• Strong interpersonal and influencing skills, with a commitment to inclusion, collaboration, and driving high performance.

How to apply:

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and be part of a company that truly values your skills and contributions, we’d love to hear from you. To learn more about our Head of HR role, email your CV and contact details – remembering to include the role you are applying for – to our Talent Acquisition Manager at [e-mail]

About our benefits:

• Pension – 3.5% E’r / min 3.5% E’ee (salary sacrifice if you want to contribute more)
• Compressed working hours Monday – Thursday 0815 – 1700/ Friday 0815 – 1245 **Half day Fridays**
• 5 days/ 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays (this will be pro-rata’d) **Fridays is a half day holiday**
• Christmas Shutdown**this will be taken out of the holiday allocation**
• Westfield Health Cash plan, gym discount and shopping rewards
• MSI-Defence Systems Ltd
  Salhouse Road
  Norwich
  Norfolk
  NR7 9AY
  United Kingdom
• MSI-Defence Systems US LLC
  1298 Galleria Boulevard
  Rock Hill SC29730
  USA