Head of HR - Europe

Job Title: European Head of HR

Package: Circa £200,000 basic salary + bonus + benefits

Based: 50-60% international / EU travel with a UK HQ in London

FRS are recruiting a European Head of HR for global leader in the pharmaceutical, life sciences and biotechnology industry - committed to pioneering innovations that transform patient outcomes worldwide. With a strong international footprint, cutting-edge research facilities and a people-centric culture, this organisation is driving the future of science.

They are now seeking an accomplished European Head of HR to join their senior leadership team, a role that offers both strategic influence and global exposure.

The Opportunity

This is a high-impact, board-level position where you will shape and deliver the HR agenda across Europe. Acting as a strategic partner to the business & working closely with the Global HR Director, you will guide workforce transformation, foster leadership excellence, ensuring the organisation attracts, develops and retains world-class talent. This role is highly visible, with significant international travel (50–60%) giving you direct connection with sites, leaders and employees across the region.

Key Leadership Responsibilities

• Shape the European HR Strategy: Design and execute a forward-looking people strategy that supports growth, innovation and operational excellence
• Influence at C-Suite Level: Partner with senior executives to drive business decisions, culture and organisational design
• Lead Regional HR Teams: Inspire and develop high-performing HR leaders, ensuring world-class service delivery and employee experience
• Drive Organisational Transformation: Lead on workforce planning, M&A integrations, change management and large-scale HR projects
• Champion Talent & Leadership Development: Build pipelines of future leaders and embed a culture of continuous development
• Ensure Global Consistency with Local Sensitivity: Balance global policies with local compliance and cultural nuances across multiple European jurisdictions
• Advance DEI Initiatives: Act as a visible ambassador for diversity, equity and inclusion across the region

Executive Profile

• Proven HR Leadership in Pharma / Life Sciences / Biotech - experience with recognised global industry leaders is essential
• Demonstrable success in shaping HR strategy and leading transformation at scale
• Expert understanding of European employment law, compliance and cross-border HR challenges
• Adept at navigating complex, matrixed & multinational organisations
• Inspirational leadership style with the ability to engage and influence at board and executive levels
• Highly mobile and comfortable with 50-60% international travel

Why Join?

• Strategic Influence: A seat at the leadership table, helping shape the future of a globally recognised organisation
• Global Impact: Play a pivotal role in enabling life-changing innovations to reach patients worldwide
• Package: Circa £200,000 base salary, performance bonus, private healthcare and a comprehensive executive benefits package
• Prestige & Purpose: Lead HR across Europe for one of the most respected names in life sciences