Head of HR

Are you an experienced Head of HR or Senior HR Business Partner ready for your next challenge? Niche Recruitment is proud to be exclusively partnering with Freixenet Copestick to appoint a strategic and hands-on Head of HR to lead the people function within this ambitious, multi-site FMCG business.

Freixenet Copestick is a major player in the UK drinks market and the nation’s leading supplier of sparkling wines. With an expanding portfolio across still and sparkling wine, the business is in an exciting period of growth. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the organisation’s people strategy at a senior level and contribute to its long-term success.

The Head of HR will be responsible for leading and developing the people function across approximately 180 employees based at the Head Office in Newbury, the Bolney Wine Estate in Sussex, and Jascots Wine Merchants in London. Reporting to board-level directors and working closely with the UK Leadership Team and the Global Chief People Officer, this is a pivotal role supporting organisational growth, and fostering a progressive, values-led culture.

Key Responsibilities of the Head of HR:

• Develop and implement the people strategy aligned to the company’s growth plans and values
• Act as a trusted advisor to the UK Leadership Team on all people-related matters
• Lead recruitment, workforce planning, and succession strategies to attract and retain top talent
• Oversee employee relations, engagement, and performance initiatives
• Champion diversity, wellbeing, and a values-led culture across the business
• Manage HR operations including payroll and benefits through an outsourced provider
• Lead, mentor, and develop the internal HR team
• Collaborate with global HR colleagues to align practices and share best approaches

Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in a senior HR leadership role, ideally in a fast-paced, multi-site environment
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills at all levels, including board level
• In-depth knowledge of UK employment law and HR’s commercial impact on business success
• Strategic thinking with a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving
• Demonstrated success in designing and delivering impactful people initiatives
• CIPD Level 7 qualification (or equivalent) is preferred

Freixenet Copestick is committed to creating an open, inclusive, and flexible working environment. The company actively supports accessible recruitment practices and encourages applications from all backgrounds. Adjustments to the hiring process can be made to support individual needs – please let us know how we can help.

If this sounds like the right next step in your HR career, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now or contact Niche Recruitment to find out more.