Head of People - Media

We're working with a fast-growing, PE-backed B2B media group at a pivotal point in its journey. The business has expanded rapidly, both organically and through acquisition, and now employs around c.200 people across the UK, with small international teams also in place. Culture and collaboration have been at the heart of their success, but now, as they move into a new phase of growth and maturity, they're looking for their first permanent strategic Head of People to build and lead the people agenda from the top.

This newly created role will report directly to a progressive and people-centric MD who joined the business earlier this year. They bring a strong track record of working closely with strategic HR leaders and is seeking a true partner - someone commercial, energetic, and not afraid to challenge and elevate the status quo. The leadership team is engaged, receptive, and ready to invest in building a thoughtful, modern people strategy.

You'll take the reins from a solid operational People team that currently delivers day-to-day HR support across the business. While engagement is already high, with excellent retention and minimal ER issues, there's significant opportunity to define and drive a holistic People & Culture strategy. You'll shape everything from organisational design, talent development, and leadership capability, to culture, DEI, performance, and internal mobility. With a view toward a future transaction on the horizon, experience in a PE environment or preparing a business for sale will be especially valuable.

The ideal candidate will be a senior generalist who thrives in fast-paced, scaling businesses - someone who is as comfortable building from scratch as they are partnering at the exec level. You'll need to be a strategic thinker who can bring fresh ideas, while also being hands-on when needed. A blend of experience across both scrappy start-ups and more developed HR environments would be ideal. Media or creative industry backgrounds are a plus, as is any international exposure.

The role is based in the company's London HQ and typically requires two to three days per week in the office. There's flexibility around working patterns and they may be able to consider part time candidates (4 days).

This is a unique opportunity to shape the people function at a high-growth, people-first business - bringing your vision, energy, and commercial mindset to a company that's ready to invest in its culture for the long term.

If this sounds like your kind of challenge, please apply now!

Handle actively welcomes applicants from under-represented backgrounds - we pride ourselves on attracting the best talent for every opportunity through a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.