Head of People & Business Operations

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Head of People & Business Operations to join our leadership team and play a key role in shaping how our business operates and grows. The role will be based at our Wrexham Workshop and Design Studio.

This is a hands-on, highly varied role in a 60-person manufacturing company where you will take full ownership of HR while also supporting the smooth running of several operational areas.

As the stand-alone HR lead, you will work closely with the Owner and leadership team, advising on people strategy, supporting business decisions and helping to build a strong, positive workplace culture.

Alongside leading HR, you will oversee several operational support functions including administration, health and safety, purchasing, client visits and IT relationships, ensuring the business runs efficiently and effectively.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working in an entrepreneurial SME environment, where you can make decisions, influence change and see the direct impact of your work.

The Role

People & HR Leadership

Lead the HR function across the business as the sole HR professional
Provide practical HR advice and support to managers
Manage recruitment, onboarding and employee development
Handle employee relations matters and performance management
Maintain HR policies and ensure employment law compliance
Support employee engagement and organisational development

Leadership & Strategic Support

Act as a trusted advisor to the Owner.
Contribute to leadership team discussions and business planning
Support managers to build strong, effective teams

Operations Oversight

Oversee day-to-day business administration and operational support
Line manager a business support administrator
Ensure the efficient and cost-effective purchasing process and align closely with our finance team
Ensure internal processes run smoothly and efficiently

Health & Safety

Line manage the Health, Safety & Facilities Lead
Support a strong culture of safety and compliance across the business

IT & Systems

Manage the relationship with the external IT support provider
Oversee IT contracts and renewals

Team Leadership

Manage two direct reports and support the wider team

About You

You will be a confident and pragmatic HR leader who enjoys working in a fast-moving SME environment.

You are comfortable balancing strategic thinking with hands-on delivery and can confidently support senior leaders in making people and business decisions.

You will likely have:

Experience leading HR in a small or medium-sized business
Experience operating as a stand-alone HR lead or within a very small HR team
Strong knowledge of UK employment law
Experience advising senior leaders and managers
A practical, solutions-focused approach
The ability to manage multiple priorities across people and operations

It would be a bonus if you have:

Experience working in a small creative, entrepreneurial or founder-led business
Exposure to manufacturing, engineering or product-led businesses
Experience overseeing administration or operational support functions

Why Join Us

Leadership team role with real influence
Broad, varied role with genuine impact
Opportunity to shape the people strategy of a growing business

Benefits

30 days annual leave including bank holidays increasing with length of service.
Your birthday day off.
Company sick pay.
Enhanced Pension Contributions (Silverlining contribute 6%).
Employee Assistance Program
Health Cash Plan (Health Shield)

Silverlining Furniture

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Head of HR and Business Operations