James J.

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT JAMES J.

HR Director — Strategic, Commercial, Transformation-FocusedHR Director who translates business strategy into measurable people outcomes across FTSE, private and not‑for‑profit organisations. Combines multi-sector commercial rigour and a solicitor’s legal perspective with deep experience in M&A, integration and operating model change to drive value, lead change and accelerate performance.Core strengths- Transformation and M&A: leads end‑to‑end post‑acquisition integrations, divestments and large change programmes that retain critical talent and realise commercial synergies- Strategic people leadership: workforce planning, organisational design, succession and operating model redesign aligned to growth priorities- Senior business partnering trusted adviser: partners with executive leaders as a strategic integrated member of the leadership team; acts as a trusted adviser and critical friend, ensuring HR is a decisive, enabling voice- Regulated environments, governance and reward: experience in operating HR frameworks for regulated sectors, including RemCo; ensures compliance, robust controls and governance that support risk-aware, commercially aligned decision making- Builds and scales HR capability: leads high‑performing, highly engaged service‑oriented HR teams through coaching, clear accountability and progressive career development.Sector experience and fitProven multi-sector experience across Financial Services, Technology, Retail, FMCG and Publishing with a track record on high‑profile integrations (Costa/Coca‑Cola; United Biscuits/Yildiz; Home Retail Group/Sainsbury’s; HBOS/Lloyds) and government‑commissioned culture work. Ideal HR Director for organisations seeking a commercially minded leader to drive transformation, adapt to new business strategies and scale HR capability.