We are delighted to be partnering with The Talbot Group in the search for an HR Director to lead and shape the future of this dynamic organisation. This is a key leadership role, responsible for driving HR strategy, workforce planning, recruitment, retention, training, and employee relations. As a hands-on leader, the HR Director will foster a positive workplace culture while ensuring alignment with organisational goals and compliance with statutory requirements.

This role is based onsite five days a week in Stamullen, Co. Meath, with flexibility around start times and working arrangements to support work-life balance and collaboration.

The Position

This is a pivotal position, reporting directly to the CEO and working closely with the Senior Management Team (SMT). The HR Director will be responsible for the full spectrum of HR functions in a fast-paced, people-centric environment. The Talbot Group operates 24/7, and while this role is not expected to be on-site outside standard hours, it does require responsiveness to evolving business needs.

The successful candidate will be both strategic and hands-on, leading an established HR team while actively engaging with line managers and employees at all levels. The HR Director will be instrumental in modernising HR processes, implementing a new HRIS, and supporting leadership development across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities include:

Strategic HR Leadership & Workforce Planning

• Lead the HR function as a key member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), aligning HR strategies with business objectives.
• Advise the CEO and General Manager on workforce planning, service improvements, and resource allocation, ensuring HR supports business growth and operational efficiency.
• Enhance HR policies, systems, and processes, ensuring compliance with employment law and best practices.

Talent Acquisition, Retention & Leadership Development

• Oversee high-volume recruitment, retention strategies, and workforce planning for a headcount of 1,500+ employees.
• Lead on talent development, training, and succession planning, ensuring long-term sustainability.
• Support and develop middle management, equipping them with leadership skills to manage teams effectively.

HR Operations, Compliance & Employee Relations

• Provide expert guidance on complex employee relations matters, grievances, and disputes.
• Ensure compliance with Irish employment law and represent the organisation in third-party dispute resolutions, including the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
• Lead the implementation of a new HRIS and TMS system, working with internal IT teams to enhance digitalisation and HR data management.

Culture, Engagement & Organisational Development

• Foster an inclusive, high-performance culture where employees feel valued and supported.
• Develop and implement recognition programs and engagement initiatives to enhance employee satisfaction and retention.
• Champion Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees.

HR Team Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead a strong HR team, including Recruitment, Training, and Employee Relations specialists.
• Work closely with line managers, ensuring HR is highly visible and supportive at all levels.
• Partner with internal and external stakeholders, including regulatory bodies such as HSE and TUSLA.

Key Priorities (First 6-12 Months)

1. Optimise recruitment strategies to attract and retain top talent in a highly competitive market.
2. Implement and embed the new HRIS system, streamlining HR processes and data management.
3. Develop and roll out leadership training programs, focusing on middle management development.

The Person

• 10+ years' HR experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven experience in a fast-paced, operational environment, ideally within healthcare, social care, or a related sector.
• Strong knowledge of Irish employment law, HR compliance, and best practices.
• Experience managing employee relations in both unionised and non-unionised settings.
• Demonstrated leadership in change management, organisational development, and workforce planning.
• Experience with HRIS implementation and digitalisation of HR processes.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Background in high-volume recruitment and workforce planning.

Why Join The Talbot Group?

The Talbot Group is more than just a workplace-it's a community with a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with varying abilities. This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference, leading an engaged and integrated team in a highly supportive environment.

This is a high-impact leadership role where you will help drive transformation, implement modern HR systems, and support business growth.

If you are a dynamic HR leader with a passion for people, operational excellence, and strategic impact, we would love to hear from you.

To discover more contact Sinead Connolly in HRM Search Partners on +353 87 4672251 or click to apply.

*Please note visa sponsorship is not available and applicants must be eligible to work in Ireland*