We are aware that the phrase “Strategic HR” is seen by some as a contradiction in terms.
We’re proving that wrong.
We work with medium sized organisations (often with between 15-150 employees) and have a particular focus on the nuances of the professional services industry and voluntary sector.
The Director and Principle HR Consultant of Approach Human Resources is Alice Francis
Over the past 16 years I’ve gained HR experience in organisations of vastly different cultures as they expand, contract or evolve. Operating as a senior manager, analytical specialist and HR project manager.
Through my varied roles the constant has been my fascination in understanding what the businesses are really about and how they operate. So I have gathered assorted gems of non-HR knowledge along the way; from the mechanics of radio transmissions, to maximising airport trolley availability.
This approach helps me to have business conversations without leaders having to dumb-down their operational language “for HR to get it”. I’ve found that this means I can provide HR solutions that actually solve business problems, not just add process to them.
I am a Chartered Member of the CIPD and hold the APMP qualification from the Association of Project Managers.
I am passionate about the positive impact that effective people management can have on an organisation. I believe that this is particularly key for medium-sized businesses as they expand and are evolving the ways that they operate.
The difficulty I see is that these growing businesses rarely have the full HR expertise they need in house. On the other hand, external HR support is often policy-focused and the answers just don’t make sense for SMEs who need flexibility to thrive.
I therefore started Approach Human Resources to fill this gap in HR outsourcing, to collaborate with businesses in understanding what they are working to achieve and to provide the HR expertise that they need to do that. Without all the red tape that is often associated with HR.
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Alice understood the context of what I needed for my business and did an excellent piece of work that exactly met those needs. I feel much more secure having this in place.
Alice's workshop on "Practical HR Strategy" opened my eyes to what a planned HR strategy can achieve and how it can be relevant for SMEs. A great investment of time that will make a real difference to the way that I work.
Working with 'Approach' has made a significant difference to our Organisation. Their support in helping us to implement our Business Plan and to remain focussed on our targets has been excellent. Thank you Approach Human Resources!
ITEC recently engaged Alice Francis to assist with a multifaceted TUPE migration. ITEC benefited greatly from Alice’s attention to detail and commitment to making sure of a job well done.
We needed a review of our organisation structure, role descriptions and salaries and were delighted with the outcomes. Their approach was professional and demonstrated how quickly they were able to grasp our situation and issues.
The HR help was invaluable and Alice was not only a pleasure to work with but provided clear and confident advice throughout.
Alice’s research into the people challenges faced by SME’s was interesting and thought provoking. Her presentation of the report highlights at Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce was engaging, clear and really focused the mind.
Alice is very knowledgeable and always up to date across the whole spectrum of HR issues. I can’t think of someone I would rather ask for advice.
Alice quickly understood the scope and context of the work required, identified key stakeholders, and engaged accordingly. Able to provide clear, concise summaries of options, related costs and benefits. Built great rapport.
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