The Head of Human Resources will be responsible for developing and implementing HR strategies that support the agency’s global business objectives, while nurturing a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence. This role will lead a global HR team, overseeing talent acquisition, employee engagement, performance management, compensation, and benefits across multiple regions. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with deep experience in HR leadership within a global organization. They will bring a strong understanding of different cultures, labor laws, and best practices in HR, and be passionate about creating a values-driven environment where employees can thrive.Experience in the healthcare, life sciences, or scientific communications industry is essential for this role.
This is a remote-based role, allowing you to work from your home address in the UK. However, there may be occasions when you will be required to travel to our London or Manchester office or other locations for business purposes, client meetings, or company/team events.
About the Role
- HR Strategy & Leadership:Develop and execute HR strategies aligned with the company's goals and global expansion plans. Act as a strategic advisor to the executive team on all people-related matters.
- Global Talent Acquisition & Retention:Lead efforts to attract, develop, and retain top talent across diverse geographic regions. Oversee global recruitment strategies, onboarding processes, and workforce planning.
- Employee Engagement & Culture:Foster a culture that reflects the agency’s values of collaboration, innovation, and scientific excellence. Drive initiatives to improve employee engagement and support a positive work environment.
- Performance Management:Design and implement performance management systems that drive accountability, continuous learning, and professional growth. Coach and support managers in effective performance development.
- Compensation & Benefits:Ensure competitive, equitable, and compliant compensation and benefits programs across all markets. Oversee salary benchmarking, pay equity, and benefits management.
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:Champion DEI initiatives that promote a diverse workforce and inclusive culture. Ensure policies and practices are aligned with global DEI goals.
- Compliance & Risk Management:Ensure compliance with global labor laws and regulations, and manage HR risk across all regions. Oversee employee relations, grievance procedures, and conflict resolution.
- Mergers & Acquisitions Integration:Lead the HR integration of acquired companies, ensuring seamless cultural alignment, harmonization of HR policies and practices, and a positive employee experience through periods of transition. Partner closely with leadership, legal, and functional teams to manage change, retain key talent, and support organizational growth.
- HR Operations & Systems:Optimize HR operations to ensure efficiency and scalability. Implement and manage HR systems and tools to support global teams.
Qualifications:
- Experience:10+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, with at least 5 years in a global or multi-national organization.Candidates with a background in healthcare, life sciences, or scientific communications industry is critical to success in the role.
- Education:Bachelor’s/Master's degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred. CIPD Level 7 qualification would be an added advantage.
- Skills:Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to influence at all levels. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Global Expertise:In-depth knowledge of global HR practices, labor laws, and cultural nuances, particularly in India, the US, and the UK. Experience supporting geographically distributed teams is preferred.
- Strategic & Hands-On:Ability to balance strategic leadership with operational execution. Comfortable navigating both high-level strategy and day-to-day HR functions.
What We Offer:
- Opportunity to shape the HR strategy of a fast-growing, global organization.
- Collaborative and inclusive work environment with a focus on innovation.
- Competitive compensation and benefits package.
- Flexible working arrangements, with opportunities to work across our global offices.
About Cactus Life Sciences:
At Cactus Life Sciences (cactuslifesciences.com), we believe the future of medical communications lies at the intersection of science, technology, and human connection. Headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey, with teams in Switzerland, the United Kingdom, India, and Japan, we help biopharmaceutical organizations redefine scientific exchange—leveraging AI, automation, and innovation while keeping patients at the heart of everything we do.
Our expertise spans medical strategy, scientific content development, and medical education across therapeutic areas and the product lifecycle. By blending scientific rigor, agile operational models, and future-ready technologies, we partner with medical affairs teams to catalyze their transformation, adapt to a changing landscape, and drive meaningful outcomes for healthcare communities worldwide.
As we continue to expand our global presence, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Human Resources to lead our global HR function and foster a high-performing, inclusive culture across our global offices.
