The Company: Our client, Marks & Spencer (M&S) in Cyprus and Romania, is a multinational retailer known for its high-quality clothing, home products, and premium food ranges. On behalf of our Client, we are seeking for a Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO).
The Position:
The Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) is a senior executive responsible for leading the human resources function and shaping the people strategy to support the company’s overall vision and business objectives. Acting as a strategic business partner to the Executive Team, the CHRO ensures that HR initiatives drive performance, foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture, and ensure compliance with all employment laws and internal standards.
Duties & Responsibilities:
1) Strategic Leadership & Business Partnering:
Develop and implement HR strategies that support organizational goals and long-term growth.
Serve as a strategic advisor to the Executive Team on all HR and people-related matters.
Align HR initiatives with business priorities to ensure agility and organizational success.
Drive change management and transformation initiatives effectively.
2) Talent Management, Recruitment & Development:
Lead the full talent lifecycle — attraction, recruitment, onboarding, and retention.
Develop and implement effective recruitment strategies to attract high-performing individuals across all levels, especially within retail operations.
Ensure workforce planning aligns with business needs and seasonal demand fluctuations.
3) Learning & Development (L&D):
Lead the Learning & Development strategy in alignment with the Group Learning Academy.
Ensure training programs are cascaded effectively across all business units and regions.
Promote a culture of continuous learning and leadership development.
Evaluate training effectiveness and report on the ROI of learning initiatives.
4) Culture & Employee Experience:
Shape and sustain a strong, inclusive, and performance-driven culture.
Drive engagement initiatives that strengthen employee experience and retention.
Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) across the organization.
Support initiatives that enhance internal communication and collaboration
Build and maintain a strong employer brand to position the company as an employer of choice.
Establish robust performance management and succession planning systems.
Focus on employee development and career growth to enhance engagement and reduce turnover.
5) HR Operations & Compliance:
Oversee HR operations including payroll, benefits, and HRIS systems.
Ensure compliance with all employment laws and internal policies.
Manage employee relations, including grievances, disciplinary actions, and conflict resolution.
Oversee the HR budget and ensure resources are used efficiently.
6) HR Analytics, Insights & Digital Transformation:
Utilize HR analytics to provide insights and support evidence-based decision-making.
Develop dashboards and metrics to monitor workforce trends and KPIs.
Drive digital transformation in HR, implementing tools that enhance efficiency and employee experience.
Ensure data accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with data protection standards.
7) Leadership of the HR Function:
Lead, mentor, and develop the HR team to deliver best-in-class service.
Build strong cross-functional relationships with business leaders.
Foster collaboration and continuous improvement within the HR department.
Skills & Requirements:
Bachelor’s in HR/Business Administration/Organizational Psychology/ Social Sciences. Master’s in HRM or MBA preferred: HR certifications (CIPD) an advantage.
15 years in HR, 10+ years in senior leadership: experience in retail, hospitality, FMCG, or high-headcount operations; international HR management advantageous.
Fluent English & Greek
The ability to align HR strategy with overall business goals.
Inspiring and guiding teams and influencing C-suite decisions.
Using HR analytics and data to inform strategies and measure outcomes.
Expertise in attracting, developing, and retaining talent.
Experience in designing and refining organizational structures to meet business needs.
Proficiency with Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) and other HR technology, including AI-driven tools.
A deep understanding of employment law and ethical business practices.
Knowledge of accounting, finance, and compensation structures.
The ability to analyse data to provide actionable insights for the business.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including strong listening and negotiation abilities.
High emotional intelligence to build strong relationships and understand employee needs.
The ability to mediate and resolve conflicts within the workplace.
Fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture, with a strong understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion principles.
The capacity to navigate change and adapt to new trends in the workforce.
Location: The position is for the offices of M&S in Cyprus
Remuneration: An attractive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate based on qualifications and experience.
Apply now in strict confidence.
Only successful candidates will be contacted.