A Day in the Life of a Head of People
Leanne Murphy — Head of People
Head of People at Carluccio's · Talent Manager at Evans Cycles · Recruitment Manager at Radley London
What would your typical week look like as a Head of People?
Jeez, what a question. A typical week is anything but typical. The pace of retail and hospitality dictates a regularly changing calendar: one moment I'm in a budget review, the next I'm coaching, followed by regular team meetings and project reviews, delivering a bite-sized session on mindfulness, or taking to the stage to announce the next phase in our people-orientated projects to the leaders of our business.
What has been one of your biggest highlights / achievements in your career so far?
It sounds so cliched to say, but knowing you have had a positive impact on someone's personal as well as professional wellbeing and development is really what counts. L&D is my favourite aspect of HR — whether that's implementing a company-wide talent programme, coaching a peer, or inspiring and leading a team. One of my biggest achievements (other than developing happy and talented teams) would be designing and delivering a year-long top-talent programme at Evans Cycles; it definitely was unorthodox and certainly broke the mould when it comes to talent development.
What is your top tip for anyone wanting a career in HR?
Identify the sector you want to work in and establish your network early; LinkedIn is a fantastic way to do this. I always appreciate a work experience or apprenticeship enquiry and will do my best to accommodate. And if you're looking for a career change, take confidence in your transferable skills and know that a successful HR professional is one who is people-centric, demonstrates a high EQ and is super commercial — the rest can be learnt.
If you could have chosen a different career, what would it have been?
Lead violinist in the London Philharmonic Orchestra! I'm a bit rusty now, but I used to be pretty good on the violin. I have spent many an evening at the Southbank Centre enjoying their performances.
If you had £500, what would you buy and where from?
My wardrobe of late has taken second fiddle to my son's, so I would gift myself a little splurge in COS, as the scandi-style pieces suit my style, and I'd treat myself to some colourful home accessories from Anthropologie to complement my bright blue living room.
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