Fractional HR Director - Sunderland

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 Sunderland

A local district in the county of Tyne and Wear, Sunderland is situated at the mouth of the River Wear and for hundreds of years, the region served as a port, mainly trading products like coal and salt.

Throughout the Industrial Revolution, Sunderland's economy was based on industries like brewing, glassmaking, pottery and rope making.

From the 14th century onwards, Sunderland was also an important place for shipbuilding. In 1814, there were 24 shipyards in the region and by 1840 this number had risen to 65. By the middle of the 20th century, a significant portion of the country's merchant and naval ships were produced here.

The last of the shipyards, however, closed in 1988 and much of the other heavy industry has also disappeared from the region. Today, the economy of Sunderland is now mainly based in the service sector, although a number of factories and production facilities still exist.

Those seeking Fractional HR Director roles in Sunderland will have a range of options to consider and a number of companies operate regional offices, warehouses and other facilities in the region - including Littlewoods and LG Electronics.

Berghaus, an outdoor clothing manufacturer has its head office in Sunderland and so does Arriva, the public transport company. The 2 Sisters Food Group, which supplies poultry, fish, chilled and frozen items and bakery goods to supermarkets, also has a site here.

Meanwhile the Nissan car plant in Sunderland is the largest factory of its kind in the UK and produces vehicles like the Micra, Note and Qashqai.

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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.

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