Company

We're hiring: Head of Culture

We are looking for an experienced HR professional to lead the development and implementation of a forward-thinking People Strategy.

Part-time (0.6 FTE) | 3-Year Fixed Term Contract | £50,000–£55,000 pro rata

Buttress is an architecture practice and proud B Corp. We are passionate about what we do, and how we do it. We work with many amazing and varied clients shaping places that have long-term positive impacts.

We are looking for an experienced HR professional to lead the development and implementation of a forward-thinking People Strategy that supports our continued growth, while ensuring our values and culture remain at the heart of everything we do. This is an exciting opportunity to influence change, mentor our HR team, and help us navigate new governance structures that align with our B Corp accreditation. 

a group of images that show people working at Buttress Architects

The role

As Head of Culture, you’ll work closely with our Studio Operations & HR Associate and report to the Board Director. Your role will focus on: 

Strategic Leadership: Developing and delivering a People Strategy aligned with our business objectives and long-term goals. 

Embedding Culture: Ensuring our purpose and values, as articulated in our Cultural Manifesto, are deeply woven into the fabric of our business. 

Mentoring & Development: Providing guidance to our Studio Operations & HR Associate as they grow into a future Head of People & Culture role. 

Change Management: Supporting the business through structural transitions and governance evolution, while minimising risks and maximising cultural benefits. 

Operational Excellence: Overseeing HR processes, talent management, policy updates, and ensuring compliance with employment law and best practices. 

About you

We’re seeking someone with: 

- Proven senior HR experience, ideally within the AEC industry. 

- Expertise in alternative governance structures (e.g., Employee Owned Trusts). 

- CIPD Level 7 qualification or equivalent, with Chartered Membership. 

- Deep understanding of UK employment law and HR best practices. 

- A collaborative, empathetic, and adaptable approach to leadership. 

- Skills in change management, strategic vision, and financial awareness. 

a group photo of buttress staff sitting on raked seating at caernarfon castle

What we can offer

Buttress is a collective of over eighty creative and talented staff, with two studios in central Manchester and Leeds. We are experts in architecture, urban design, heritage consultancy and conservation architecture.

Benefits offered include:

  • This is a 3 year fixed term role, 0.6FTE 

  • The salary will be in a range of £50, 000 to £55, 000, pro rata to 37.5hrs per week and subject to experience 

  • Flexible working available with 60% of time from our studios in Manchester and Leeds 

  • Workplace pension with employer contributions and optional salary sacrifice scheme 

  • 33 days holiday pro rata (including bank holidays) with full closure over the Christmas period 

  • Employee Assistance Programme, currently through Vitality 

  • Annual staff trip with travel and accommodation paid by the business 

  • Free annual flu vaccinations 

  • Enhanced maternity, paternity and shared parental leave 

  • Enhanced sick pay scheme 

  • Wellbeing initiatives and mental health first aiders  

  • Cycle to work scheme  

  • Inclusive social calendar  

The Recruitment Process

We value transparency and inclusivity in our hiring process: 

1. Initial application review (anonymised). 

2. Stage 1: Hiring Manager interview with the Studio Operations & HR Associate and Director of People. 

3. Stage 2: Presentation to the hiring panel. 

4. Stage 3: Executive interview with the Managing Director and a Board Member. 

Informal conversations with a member of the hiring team are encouraged before applying. 

Ready to apply?

Please apply with your CV and cover note to opportunities@buttress.net. We look forward to hearing from you.

Closing Date: 06 Dec 2024. 

Buttress is committed to diversity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.