Lead HR Business Partner

About the role

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead HR Business Partner (Director) to join our dynamic People team at ESW. Based in our Madrid office, this role plays a pivotal part in co‑creating the HR strategy for Spain and ensuring flawless execution of People initiatives across the business. Reporting to the VP of HR Business Partnering, you will partner closely with the CTO, the Technology leadership team, and the Works Council to build a high‑performance, engaging culture that supports ESW's growth ambitions.

Responsibilities

• Act as a strategic partner and trusted advisor to the CTO, Technology leadership team, and Product Leads on talent development, performance management, cultural change, engagement, employee relations, and organisational design.
• Serve as the lead HR role for Spain, providing leadership where required to the HR team to ensure end‑to‑end HR processes deliver an excellent service and that escalations are resolved in conjunction with the HR Leadership team.
• Own, create, and implement HR initiatives and processes aligned with best practice to support the company's people strategy.
• Coach and develop leaders at all levels, from line managers through to executives, to build organisational capability.
• Partner with the HR Business Partnering team and the Communications & Engagement Lead to design and deliver employee involvement and engagement plans.
• Collaborate with Centres of Excellence (Talent Acquisition, Learning & Development, etc.) to advise on the design and implementation of relevant people programs.
• Review, implement, and maintain the full range of employment policies to ensure HR best practice and legal compliance, and communicate effective policy application.
• Establish, assess, and analyse HR metrics and performance indicators, designing strategies based on insights.
• Co‑lead the development of a strong and effective relationship with the Works Council to support business growth and employee engagement.
• Support talent acquisition activities including experienced hire recruitment (domestic and international), global mobility, graduate recruitment, and internal secondment programmes to ensure robust workforce planning.
• Ensure employee surveys are conducted, analyse results, and champion programmes aligned to people and business strategy.
• Support managers in handling routine employee relations matters, including grievance and disciplinary issues, ensuring timely and effective resolution.
• Act as a culture ambassador, actively fostering diversity and inclusion across the organisation.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Senior or Lead HR Business Partner within a global and complex environment.
• Demonstrated success supporting technology employee populations (e.g. Engineering, Product, Data, Infrastructure), with a strong understanding of their operating models, talent,and ways of working
• Strong knowledge of HR principles, practices, and employment regulations.
• Demonstrated success in designing and implementing innovative people strategies, programmes, and initiatives.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
• Strong organisational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Excellent active listening, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment, manage multiple priorities, and remain agile.
• Degree or equivalent experience in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Willingness to travel to ESW HQ in Dublin when required.
• About ESW
• Guided by our values-Own It, Champion Simplicity, Win as One, and Debate then Commit-we strive to foster innovation, accountability, and teamwork, creating solutions that inspire trust and drive impactful results.
• Why join us
• Competitive salary and benefits: Your financial well being is important to us. Join ESW and experience the satisfaction of being rewarded for your hard work, dedication and commitment.
• Professional and personal developmen t: Find your spark and leave your mark. We will ensure your talent is nurtured and cultivated for growth and success throughout your career with ESW.
• Hybrid Working : Our Hybrid Working Model empowers you to embrace the flexibility of hybrid working and enjoy the best of office and remote work.
• D iversity, Belonging & Inclusion: When we win, we win together. You'll be part of a culture that values every individual for who they are, fostering an environment where uniqueness is encouraged.
• ESW is an equal o

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