Fractional HR Director - Burnley

Do you need fractional HRD expertise?

Does your organisation need strategic HR leadership to navigate growth and organizational challenges effectively? Employing a fractional Human Resources Director (HRD) offers a practical and cost-effective solution for businesses aiming to enhance their HR capabilities without the overhead of a full-time executive. Their external perspective often brings fresh ideas for improving workplace culture and employee satisfaction, critical for retaining top talent and boosting productivity. 

Fractional HR Director

A Fractional HR Director (HRD), alternatively called a Fractional CHRO (Chief Human Resources Officer) or Interim CHRO, is a part-time or contract-based professional providing strategic HR leadership to a company. This role includes tasks such as developing HR strategies aligning with business goals, enhancing workforce performance and promoting a positive organisational culture. They operate at the executive level, providing companies with critical HR oversight on a flexible basis, which is particularly valuable for small- to mid-sized organisations that may not require or be able to afford a full-time HRD.

A fractional HRD is involved with key decision-making processes that impact the workforce. They can oversee and innovate recruitment strategies, compensation plans, talent development and more. Their role also includes managing employee relations, ensuring that all employment practices and policies follow the law and ethical guidelines.

The reporting structure of a Fractional CHRO will vary depending on the business’s specific organisational structure. However, in most instances, this role reports to the CEO or the board of directors. They work closely with other top executives to ensure that human resources strategies and practices align with overall business objectives and employment law. 

Fractional HRD skills required

As a fractional HRD, you need a diverse skill set. Leadership and strategic thinking are at the forefront of this role. You are expected to guide the company’s HR strategy, developing policies and plans that align with business goals. This demands deep knowledge of HR management, employment law and industry trends.

Communication skills are key. You will liaise with a range of stakeholders, from employees to high-level executives and board members. The ability to clearly convey complex information and listen effectively is crucial. You must have excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills because you’ll often find yourself mediating conflicts and reaching agreements.

An aptitude for problem-solving plays a key role in your position. You will face challenges that require quick thinking, adaptability, and creativity. Empathy is extremely important, as understanding and addressing employee needs and concerns forms a significant part of your role. 

Fractional HR Director Jobs in Burnley

Whereas most northern towns with milling and industrial heritage are closely linked to a major city such as Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle or Glasgow, Burnley is something of an oddity thanks to its relative isolation. It’s a good 22 miles (34 km) to the centre of Manchester to its direct south, about the same distance west or Bradford and the next major settlement to its north is Carlisle, 80 miles (130 km) away. Its nearest neighbour is Blackburn, 10 miles to the west and roughly Burnley’s twin in terms of population (and its footballing rival).

Burnley started out as a market town, trading chiefly in wool and other farm products, until the Industrial Revolution, and particularly the canals, reached the town. When coal was discovered close by, the picture was complete. Before long the town was thriving, with wool mills and eventually cotton mills powered by steam engines making the town thunder with productivity. Inevitably, the mills were to gradually close down and Burnley went through a period of isolation and stagnation, particularly after the Second World War.

The town is, however, looking forward, and has attracted investment and jobs over recent years. Industrial estates have sprung up around the town, and perhaps because of the distance to large cities, Burnley has become almost self-sufficient when it comes to retail, with a bustling town centre and a host of chains setting up shop there. This all adds up to a positive story for those looking for Fractional HR Director positions in the Burnley area.

Popular locations

Interim CHRO jobs at Cast UK

Does your HR department need knocking into shape with some top expertise, but not on a permanent basis? Right now there are top executives offering fractional HRD services, so you can hire them on a short-term contract to oversee your department’s evolution. Call Cast UK on 0333 121 3345, or get in touch with us here to find out how we can help.

If you’re experienced in HR at the highest level and are looking for a short-term contract, we want to hear from you. Fill in our registration form today so we can match you with companies looking for your skills.

Contact us