Head of People Partnering

Join us on the journey

This is a hybrid role with a minimum of three days in the office per week.

At Cotswold Outdoor Group, the outdoors isn’t just where we work, it’s who we are. Every day, our head office teams play a vital role in helping people get outside, explore more, and experience the world around them.

We’re looking for a Head of People Partnering to join us on that journey. This role is about more than just day-to-day responsibilities, it’s about shaping our culture and enabling people to be the best they can be.

We’re currently based in Kemble but will be moving to central Swindon in Spring 2026 - just a short walk from the train station and the new bus boulevard. It’s an exciting next step in our adventure, and a chance for you to be part of it from the very start. You can take a look at our new location here: 1 Newbridge Square, Swindon.

About us

We believe life’s better when it’s lived outdoors. From hiking and wild swimming to simply stepping away from the screen, nature helps us feel alive.

At our head office, every role helps make those adventures possible. Whether it’s shaping our systems, supporting our teams or driving key initiatives, you’ll play a vital part in helping people get outside and explore more.

We’re part of the Cotswold Outdoor Group, including Runners Need and Snow + Rock, offering trusted brands, expert advice, and a commitment to protecting the planet.

Whether it’s your first step or your next move, you’ll find opportunities to learn, grow, and be part of something bigger.

What you’ll be doing

• Leading a team of regional People Partners to deliver people solutions that support business needs
• Using colleague insight and people data to identify trends and drive initiatives that improve engagement and retention
• Leading the HR administration service to deliver an efficient, consistent and high-quality people experience across the business
• Developing clear, effective people policies aligned with legislation and best practice
• Partnering with the wider People team to deliver organisational change, people projects and continuous improvement initiatives
• Supporting the attraction and development of talent by coaching hiring managers and contributing to performance and development processes
• Leading our employee relations strategy, helping create a fair, supportive and high-performing workplace whilst acting as a trusted advisor to leaders and managers on complex employee relations matters
• Deputising for the People Director when required

We’re looking for someone who

• Has experience at Department Head or Senior HR Business Partner level, delivering complex change and transformation programmes
• Leads and develops high-performing teams with confidence and impact
• Brings strong knowledge of employment law, HR policy and employee relations best practice
• Drives continuous improvement through process redesign and operational efficiencies
• Holds a CIPD qualification or equivalent professional experience
• Communicates confidently and effectively, influencing senior stakeholders and managing challenging conversations
• Takes a professional, commercially minded approach and handles sensitive matters with discretion
• Works collaboratively and advises managers on all aspects of people management and development

What you’ll get from us

Joining our team means more than just getting paid a salary, it’s about being part of a workplace that values you, your growth and your wellbeing.

You’ll enjoy:

• Starting salary of £65,000 - £70,000 with a yearly bonus of up to £6,885
• Annual car allowance of £5,500
• Hybrid working options to support your work-life balance
• 33 days holiday allowing you to recharge and explore the outdoors
• Private medical insurance, life assurance and critical illness cover
• Staff discounts of 40-60% across our full range of outdoor brands
• Savings on everyday essentials including groceries, travel, fitness, and entertainment through our perks hub

Everyone’s welcome

We welcome applications from all genders, backgrounds, and experiences. Diverse teams make us stronger, helping us learn, grow, and create a place where everyone belongs.

We want to hear your voice so encourage you to write your own application and use AI tools sparingly. We’re looking for honesty, authenticity, and a real sense of who you are. Applications that feel generic or AI-generated may not stand out.

This advert may close early if we receive a high number of applications, so don’t wait too long to apply.

Starting salary of £65,000 - £70,000 with a yearly bonus of up to £6,885

• Annual car allowance of £5,500
• Hybrid working options to support your work-life balance
• 33 days holiday allowing you to recharge and explore the outdoors
• Private medical insurance, life assurance and critical illness cover
• Staff discounts of 40-60% across our full range of outdoor brands
• Savings on everyday essentials including groceries, travel, fitness, and entertainment through our perks hub