Head of Human Resources

Swatch Group•Richmond, VA

57d

About The Position

As Head of Human Resources for Swatch Group Australia, you will be responsible for leading core HR functions, including recruitment, performance management, learning and development, payroll, remuneration and benefits, and the development and implementation of HR policies. A key focus is leading the HR function of a network of retail stores across multiple brands. The role also oversees employee relations, ensuring the effective and consistent resolution of workplace matters, compliance with employment legislation, and the promotion of a positive and safe working environment. The role is expected to proactively identify opportunities to enhance HR processes and improve employee outcomes, while maintaining a practical, solutions-focused approach across all areas of responsibility.

Requirements

Proven, demonstrated HR leadership experience in premium, luxury, or specialty retail sectors essential
Solid understanding of retail operations and retail workforce challenges
Tertiary qualifications in Human Resources or a related discipline, with prior experience in HR leadership roles
Broad generalist HR experience, including hands-on operational and strategic responsibilities an advantage
Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and sound judgment; proactive, decisive, and solutions-focused
Strong track record in driving continuous improvement and achieving results
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a clear, open, and straightforward approach
Highly organised with strong attention to detail and ability to manage competing priorities
Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Excel - intermediate level, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Solid understanding of Australian industrial relations legislation and employment law
Proven leadership capability in managing and developing HR teams
Collaborative team player with the ability to contribute effectively at senior management level

Responsibilities

Contribute to business strategy and planning as a member of the management team, aligning HR with Swatch Group HQ policies.
Lead all HR pillars across the retail network to foster a positive workplace culture, including employee relations, compensation and benefits, organisational design, training and development, and wellbeing initiatives.
Lead alignment between brand strategy and business goals, fostering a high-performance culture, driving retail employee engagement, and ensuring compliance with employment laws and company policies across retail network.
Lead organisational design, workforce planning, and talent retention strategies.
Oversee recruitment processes, including senior appointments and final hiring decisions.
Manage compensation and benefits, including annual salary reviews, bonus calculations, and remuneration structures.
Lead the development and implementation of performance management frameworks, including management of annual review processes.
Ensure HR policies, handbooks, and procedures are up-to-date, compliant, and accessible.
Provide guidance on employee relations, grievances, and legal compliance in partnership with Country Manager and In-House Legal Counsel.
Maintain accurate and legally compliant employee contracts and position descriptions.
Manage payroll, benefits administration, and HR reporting, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Lead the development and implementation of employee wellbeing strategies that promote psychological safety, resilience, and holistic health.
Deliver regular HR reports to Group HQ and internal stakeholders (monthly, quarterly, and ad hoc).
Support business changes such as retail store openings/closures and organisational restructuring.
Champion a safe workplace through active participation in safety initiatives and compliance with legislation.
Lead a small team overseeing HR Payroll/Admin Officer, HR Recruitment Officer and Recruitment Co-ordinator.
Interstate travel to support retail stores as per business needs.