Brightwater Executive is delighted to be retained exclusively by our client, Re-turn, in their search for a Head of People and Culture.
About the Company
Re-turn is at the heart of one of Ireland’s most impactful environmental initiatives — the national Deposit Return Scheme. Since its launch in 2024, the organisation has enabled the return of over 1 billion bottles and cans, significantly reduced litter, and empowered communities to take real climate action. Backed by major industry stakeholders and driven by a not-for-profit mission, Re-turn is building a cleaner, more sustainable Ireland — and the journey is only beginning. This is an exciting opportunity to join a purpose-led team shaping the future of circular living.
About the Position
Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Head of People and Culture will lead the development and delivery of a people strategy that supports its mission and growth. This role will shape a customer-centric, data-driven culture, while overseeing all HR functions including recruitment, performance, engagement, and compliance.
Key Responsibilities
HR Strategy & Leadership: Shape and deliver HR strategies that align with business goals and foster a high-performance, people-first culture. Act as a trusted advisor to leadership.
Talent Acquisition & Onboarding: Drive end-to-end recruitment and design effective onboarding to attract and retain top talent.
Employee Relations & Compliance: Manage employee relations with fairness and integrity, ensuring compliance with Irish employment law and HR best practices.
Performance & Development: Lead performance management and learning initiatives that support continuous improvement and career development.
Compensation & Benefits: Oversee payroll liaison, reward structures, and benefits programmes to ensure competitiveness and compliance.
HR Operations: Ensure efficient day-to-day HR operations, maintain accurate records, and provide insights through reporting and metrics.
Change & Organisational Development: Support ongoing HR projects, policy development, and change management initiatives.
Experience/Requirements
A third-level degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. A postgraduate qualification or CIPD certification is a significant advantage.
Proven track record of progressive HR experience, with at least 3 years in an HR leadership or standalone management role within an Irish context.
In-depth knowledge of Irish employment law and HR best practices
Excellent interpersonal and relationship skills, adept at managing through influence, with the ability to interact effectively with multiple stakeholders across the business and at various levels within the organisation.
Proven ability to provide valued consultation, build partnerships, coach and influence leaders and managers, playing the role of trusted advisor.
Demonstrate a passion for HR and proven experience of adding value and driving change through progressive HR initiatives.
Familiarity with the environmental or waste management sector is a distinct advantage.
Remuneration Package
Highly Competitive Remuneration Package and Bens
Contact
For more information and/ or a confidential discussion on this Head of People and Culture opportunity, please send your CV to Yvonne McNulty at Brightwater Executive on [email protected]
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