Head of HR

Rheinmetall AG, one of the World's leading producers of defence systems and equipment for ground, air and naval forces. Headquartered in Germany, Rheinmetall Defence business has representation in sixteen countries, including in the United Kingdom. 

We are seeking a hands-on Head of HR role to work into the UK HR Director, to lead and deliver effective day-to-day HR operations within a defence manufacturing environment. This role is a blend of execution-focused and hands on, alongside strategic and a drive for business improvement.

The role will ensure that the HR Operational team and processes run efficiently, that employees are well-supported through business practises, processes and initiatives, and that the business remains compliant with all employment regulations.

Position Responsibilities:

• Lead, develop, and manage the HR Operational Team, setting clear priorities and ensuring high-quality service delivery across all HR activities
• Drive consistency, accuracy, and continuous improvement in HR operations
• Overseeing the design, implementation, and periodic review of HR policies to ensure they remain legally compliant, up-to-date, and aligned with best practice
• Leading on complex employee relations cases within a unionised manufacturing environment
• Build and maintain effective working relationship with Trade Union representatives, ensuring open communication and constructive dialog
• Support with negotiations, consultations, and collective agreements in line with company policy and legal requirements
• Support managers and HR Business Partners in managing performance issues and implementing improvement plans
• Overseeing salary benchmarking activities and conduct workforce analysis to support equitable, competitive, and evidence-based reward decisions
• Drive effective and data driven workforce and headcount planning
• Utilising HR metrics, management information, and data analysis to inform decision-making, identify trends, and recommend improvements
• Ensure HR systems, data and reporting processes are robust, accurate and support strategic analysis and planning.
• Continuously assess market trends, look at recruitment and retention trends and ensure that the benefits and reward strategies are implemented across the business.
• Ensure HR Business Partners are aligned with business priorities and objectives
• Support HR initiatives such as wellbeing, EDI and STEM

• Minimum CIPD Level 5 or equivalent
• Significant HR Experience within a manufacturing environment
• Strong Operational HR background with a hand-on approach
• In-depth knowledge of employment legislation and HR best practices
• Experience in managing multi-site, blue collar workforce.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast paced, high demand environment
• Strong, pragmatic and influential leadership

Contact Person: Iwona Kurpiewska