We’re pleased to announce that Harriet Oldfield has joined The Westgrove Group in the role of HR Director.
Harriet’s appointment forms part of a wider strategic plan to strengthen the leadership team at Westgrove. Her role will be key in building on the HR foundations that are already in place and driving forward the people strategy in line with Westgrove’s values and our plans for the future as we continue to grow, expand and innovate.
Harriet brings with her a wealth of experience gained in a career which has always focused on HR. She has worked across a broad range of sectors, including retail, media, finance and logistics. So, whilst facilities management might be a return to an industry Harriet is familiar with, the key role overseeing people, culture and colleague engagement is familiar territory.
Since joining earlier this year, she has already been busy getting to know the business and understanding our culture, priorities and challenges.
We caught up with Harriet to find out more.
“It was the challenge!” she said when asked what drew her to a role at The Westgrove Group. “Having the opportunity to develop a forward-thinking people strategy that puts our colleagues at the forefront of our business decisions. Westgrove is growing, it’s exciting and a fast-paced environment. There is work to be done to take the HR function to the next level, and I’m looking forward to working closely with all my colleagues to deliver on this and planning for the future.
Great work is already taking place to engage colleagues across the business, genuinely recognising them and making them feel valued which is so important. The Reward and Recognition Awards are a fantastic example of this. Additionally, the significance placed on ESG is another point of difference. Some businesses quote values but it is clear that here, those values are real, tangible and can be seen in action.”
Harriet added, “I have already been made to feel incredibly welcome, and the culture has exceeded my expectations. There is a lot of work to be done and whilst so much is already in place, it’s now about being more strategic and proactive.”
Her plan will now involve creating and implementing an enhanced people strategy; one that will make a real impact, with clear business outcomes to show what Westgrove is aiming for with our colleagues – one that feels like a growing force and makes a difference.
Outside work, Harriet is an avid theatre goer. She’s also a musician, playing both the cello and piano and studying music at university before embarking on her HR career. When she isn’t at work or the theatre, Harriet enjoys keeping fit and is a keen walker.
