Colleague Spotlight: Katie Holmes, Group HR Assistant

What is your role at The Tibbetts Group?

“As the Group HR Assistant, my role is incredibly varied, and no two days are the same. I support the full employee life cycle, from recruitment and onboarding of new starters through to leavers and post-employment matters.

“I’m also involved in policy development, employee and manager support, and benefits administration. My role spans across all four of our sites, so I help ensure consistency in our HR practices and provide day-to-day support wherever is needed.”

How long have you worked at The Tibbetts Group?

“I’ve been at The Tibbetts Group since January of this year. Although I’m quite new, I feel very much part of the furniture. Everyone has been so welcoming and lovely.”

What is your favourite aspect of your role?

“I’d say the difference we can make in HR to employees and managers in the wider business. Whether that’s advising on policies or supporting wellbeing, helping to shape a positive workplace culture is very fulfilling. In HR, we’re always trying to create an environment where people feel supported and valued.”

Are there any significant projects which you are currently working on?

“I’m currently collaborating with universities to explore the potential of providing a placement scheme for current students and recent graduates here at Tibbetts. Over the upcoming months I will be spending a lot of time with university institutions to see how we can help.

“Recently, I enjoyed attending a careers fair at Warwick University for BFC. It’s nice to get out and about, working with colleagues at recruitment and careers fairs to showcase what we can offer.”

What are your future projects or goals?

“I’m currently working on my CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) Level 5 qualification, so my goal over the next 18 months is to get that completed.

“That will help to open a lot of avenues for me at Tibbetts, as I’ll understand more things relating to management and the business as a whole.”

Have you worked in this role throughout your career?

“Since I finished university, I’ve always been in HR and recruitment roles. I’m quite a people person, which has encouraged me to pursue a career in HR.”

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

“In my spare time, I like to visit the gym and go for walks. I’ve also started to get into hiking, since I climbed up Snowdon. I like spending time with friends and family too.”

Do you have a particularly interesting hobby?

“I used to horse ride, which I absolutely loved and did for about eight years. I used to have lessons and loan a horse, which I really enjoyed.”

Do you follow a sports team?

“I don’t personally, but since being with my partner, I’ve been roped into an Arsenal-supporting household. In a couple of weeks, when the Premier League is back on, I’ll be watching the games on TV each weekend!”

What is your favourite film or television genre?

“I like anything horror-related, although I am terrified of horror movies at the same time! Also, anything crime-related, I’m obsessed.”

What’s your favourite holiday destination?

“I like a sightseeing holiday; I like to go places and do activities.

“From where I’ve been so far, I’d day Budapest and Prague were the nicest places. I’d love to go to Switzerland – it looks beautiful there, but is expensive too.”

What’s something that you’ve always wanted to try or learn?

“I’ve always wanted to do a skydive. I said last year that I’ll do it this year, but I haven’t booked it yet as I’m a little bit scared!

“I want to push myself and do something outside of my comfort zone, so that is a personal goal to complete within the next few years.”