Head of HR

Job description

We are delighted to be recruiting a Head of HR for our client a healthcare provider to join their team based in Dublin.

Reports to: Managing Director
Location: Head Office with national coverage
Department: Human Resources

Role Purpose:
To lead the HR function in Ireland by providing strategic leadership, governance, and high-level oversight of all people-related functions. The Head of HR will drive HR alignment with the company’s ambitious national expansion strategy while embedding a high-performance, values-driven culture across care and support services. This role combines executive-level leadership with a hands-on operational focus, directly influencing business growth, workforce planning, and HR service delivery across new and existing regions.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Governance:
– Shape and deliver the HR strategy in line with our client’s business goals and nationwide service expansion.
– Lead workforce planning aligned to growth forecasts and regional development plans.
– Champion HR’s role in delivering exceptional care through strong people practices.
– Report to the Board and Senior Leadership Team on key HR metrics, workforce risks, and regulatory readiness.

Organisational Development & Culture:
– Foster a culture of care, accountability, and continuous improvement across all teams.
– Oversee change management programs supporting organisational restructuring or expansion.

Policy Development & Compliance:
– Oversee the design, review, and implementation of all HR policies and frameworks (recruitment, safeguarding, complaints, vetting, etc.).
– Provide high-level oversight of HIQA/HSE compliance and support inspection readiness.
– Ensure all HR practices align with Irish employment law and GDPR standards.

People Leadership:
– Lead, mentor, and support the HR leadership team (HR Ops Manager, Compliance Manager, Recruitment Manager, Reporting Manager, HR Executive).
– Set departmental goals, ensure team alignment, and drive accountability for KPIs.
– Promote upskilling, performance development, and wellbeing for HR team members.

Stakeholder Engagement:

– Build strong partnerships with Area Managers, Branch Managers, and Operations leadership.
– Act as a trusted advisor to senior managers on complex employee relations, succession planning, and people risks.
– Collaborate closely with Quality, Training, and Finance teams for joined-up service delivery.

Hands-On Operational Support:
– Be visible and hands-on with high-priority HR cases, investigations, and critical staffing needs.
– Personally support regional launches, new office mobilisation, and strategic recruitment where needed.
– Act as escalation point for complex ER cases and executive-level staff relations.

Qualifications:
– Degree or Master’s in Human Resources, Business, or related field (CIPD Chartership preferred)
– 10+ years progressive HR experience with at least 5 in senior leadership roles
– Experience in regulated sectors (healthcare, social care, or public services) highly desirable

Key Skills:
– Visionary leadership with strong operational grounding
– Stakeholder diplomacy and executive communication
– Strategic thinking and change management
– Deep knowledge of HR law, HIQA/HSE frameworks, and care sector dynamics

Working Environment:
– Based in HQ with regular travel to regional offices
– Collaborative, fast-paced, and values-driven environment with a growing footprint across Ireland