Hybrid HR Director, Optical Systems Division bei Gooch & Housego PLC

Description

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Global HR Director to lead the HR function for our growing Optical Systems division across the US and UK. As a key member of both the Optical Division Leadership Team and the Global HR Leadership Team, this role is responsible for shaping and executing the people agenda that enables long-term business success, talent growth, operational excellence, and cultural alignment across a globally distributed workforce.

The HR Director will act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, translating business strategy into aligned global HR initiatives and providing expert guidance across all areas of human capital management. This includes driving leadership development, workforce planning, talent acquisition, employee engagement, change management, and organizational design within a matrixed, fast-paced environment. This role will also act as the Site HR Partner for our US Optical Systems hub in Tampa, FL.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Business Partnership

• Serve as the principal HR leader for the Optical division globally, partnering with executive leadership to deliver on strategic objectives.
• Translate business priorities into proactive HR strategies, workforce plans, and capability-building programs aligned with global growth and performance targets.
• Contribute to the division’s operational and commercial planning processes, providing insight on people implications, change readiness, and talent risks.

Organizational Development & Talent Strategy

• Lead the global execution of talent management programs including succession planning, leadership development, and internal mobility to build a high-performing, agile workforce.
• Champion a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement throughout the Optical organization.
• Oversee the implementation of global performance management and employee development frameworks tailored to the division’s needs.

Global HR Operations & Governance

• Ensure consistent deployment and compliance with Group HR policies, practices, and systems across all Optical sites and geographies.
• Own and continuously improve designated global HR processes (e.g., Talent Acquisition, Learning & Development, Organizational Design).
• Partner with regional and local HR teams to ensure seamless execution of global and local HR initiatives, including compensation, benefits, and workforce analytics.

People Leadership & Team Development

• Provide direct leadership to site HRBPs and site HR leaders, fostering a cohesive and high-performing HR team.
• Coach, mentor, and develop HR professionals to support talent growth and career development within the function.

Employee Engagement & Change Management

• Lead global and regional engagement initiatives, including surveys, recognition programs, and internal communication strategies to enhance employee experience and retention.
• Guide leaders through major transformation initiatives, ensuring structured change management and stakeholder alignment.

HR Analytics & Reporting

• Utilize data-driven insights to inform HR strategy and monitor effectiveness of programs. Track and report key HR metrics (e.g., attrition, engagement, hiring velocity, DE&I, succession health) to business leaders.

Requirements

 Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Proven track record of strategic HR leadership in complex, global manufacturing environments; optical or high-tech sectors preferred.
• Experience operating at a global or regional director level, with specific experience directly managing UK sites.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive HR experience, including business partnering and HR  team leadership in matrixed, multi-site organizations.
• Strong business acumen and ability to influence senior leadership teams.
• Skilled in change leadership, organizational effectiveness, and large-scale transformation programs.
• Practical understanding of employment law and compliance frameworks across key jurisdictions (e.g., UK, EU, US).
• Strong communication, stakeholder management, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems and people analytics; SAP, Workday, or SuccessFactors preferred.
• Degree in Human Resources, Business, Organizational Psychology or related field; advanced degree or professional certifications (e.g., CIPD, SHRM, HRCI) a  plus.