Head of People - Temporary 9-Month Contract

About Applied Blockchain | Applied Edge

Applied Blockchain | Applied Edge assists regulated enterprises in successfully navigating AI and digital assets by developing AI systems, digital asset applications, and privacy-focused infrastructure.

Role Summary

This is a fixed-term contract position from early September 2026 through mid-May 2027, serving as maternity cover with transitions at both start and end for smooth handovers. Reporting directly to the CEO, the Head of People will lead and direct the HR and recruitment function, overseeing strategy and operations while managing two direct reports responsible for day-to-day HR and recruitment activities respectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the overall employee lifecycle and enhance the people experience across the organisation.
• Manage performance review processes, turnover risk evaluations, and retention strategies.
• Handle employee relations including grievances, disciplinary actions, and conflict resolution.
• Administer compensation, benefits, and support salary review cycles.
• Maintain and update HR policies, employee handbook, and ensure compliance with employment laws in multiple jurisdictions.
• Coordinate training, development, coaching initiatives and wellbeing support resources.
• Monitor people metrics and regularly report to leadership.
• Supervise and ensure regular one-to-one meetings across teams.
• Conduct employee surveys and implement improvements based on feedback.
• Oversee onboarding, offboarding, employment contracts, references, eligibility checks, and record-keeping.
• Manage absence, leave, family leave programs and conduct exit interviews.
• Direct recruitment efforts including collaboration with hiring managers, managing candidate experiences, agency partnerships, and recruitment metrics tracking.
• Maintain and manage the applicant tracking system and candidate pipelines.
• Develop and refine job descriptions and support recruitment marketing and employer branding strategies.
• Perform hands-on involvement during peak hiring seasons, including CV reviews, interview scheduling, and conducting HR interviews.
• Provide leadership, development, and direct management of two team members and act as the main escalation point for people matters.

Candidate Requirements

• Demonstrated leadership experience in HR or People functions such as Head of People or HR Manager roles.
• Comprehensive understanding of the full employee lifecycle and current HR best practices.
• Proficiency in employment law across various countries and experience with Employer of Record hiring models.
• Ability to lead confidently while remaining hands-on during critical periods.
• Strong background in recruitment management including working with hiring managers and external agencies.
• Experience managing and developing staff with excellent interpersonal and discretion skills, particularly interfacing with senior leadership.
• Self-motivated, quick learner capable of independent work.
• Adaptability and readiness to use new technologies including AI-driven tools.
• Right to work in the UK without need for visa sponsorship is mandatory.
• Ability to manage stressful situations with composure.
• Commitment to the full contract duration from September 2026 to May 2027.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing international or distributed teams and knowledge of Employer of Record practices.
• Expertise in recruitment marketing and employer branding strategies.
• Background in fast-paced technology companies, startups, or scale-ups.
• Interest or experience in blockchain and AI industries.