Head of Culture, EMEA

Who we are

United by a sense of purpose towards our customers – to be a trusted partner for the long-term – and our universal banking platform in EMEA, SMBC Group has an international growth agenda and award-winning products, meaning we provide exciting opportunities to work on a diverse range of projects and initiatives. We deliver a full suite of corporate finance products and solutions to our customers as well as investment banking and advisory services, and a range of innovative solutions in global capital markets. Read on to find out how you could enhance your skills and gain valuable experience, by joining us to support our clients transition to a sustainable future.

Role Summary

Is the next step in your career at SMBC Group EMEA? We’re looking for a Head of Culture, EMEA (Director) to join our Human Resources team.  You will be responsible for driving culture change, the employer brand, employee experience and employee engagement across the EMEA region. 

Business Area

The role is part of the Talent, Learning and Development Centre of Excellence (CoE) within the Human Resources Department, whose purpose is "To support our business growth by attracting, developing, mobilising and retaining diverse talent, building a culture where people can be themselves and make a difference".  The CoE consists of circa 30 employees across Talent Acquisition, Learning and Development, Talent Management, DEI and Wellbeing and Culture.

Key Responsibilities

Culture Strategy and Leadership:

• Shape EMEA Culture Strategy: Develop and implement a visionary culture strategy that aligns with business goals and organisational values, driving transformative change across the region.
• Influence Senior Leadership: Partner with senior leaders and HR teams to define, measure and evolve the organisation's culture framework, positioning yourself as a thought leader in cultural development.
• Champion Diversity and Inclusion: Collaborate with the EMEA Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Wellbeing to ensure organisational initiatives foster a diverse and inclusive culture.
• Strategic Communication: Prepare insightful Board and internal committee papers, influencing decision making across the region.
• Trusted Advisor on Culture: Provide subject matter expertise on factors that influence organisational culture across the region

Employer Brand, Employee Experience and Engagement:

• Shape Employer Brand and Enhance Employee Experience: Lead the ongoing development of the Be Our Difference Employer Brand in partnership with the Communications team ensuring it is reflected across external platforms, embedded through the employee lifecycle and reflected in the employee experience.
• Drive Engagement Strategy and Initiatives: Use insights from WeVox (global employee engagement survey) to shape and deliver initiatives that foster a workplace culture where employees feel valued, connected and engaged.
• Empower Culture Champions: Partner with the Chair of the EMEA Culture Champions Forum and departmental / country Culture Champions to develop and implement Culture Action Plans at a local level.

Culture Change and Employee Engagement:

• Lead Culture Transformation: Spearhead culture initiatives across EMEA, inspiring teams and stakeholders to embrace change.
• Culture Narrative: In partnership with EMEA Communications, develop and drive internal and external communication strategies that reinforce our employer brand, experience and values.
• Data Driven Insights: Utilise data and analytics to assess culture risk, employee engagement, employer experience and overall cultural effectiveness, providing strategic recommendations to drive impactful culture change.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Organisational Development, Human Resources, or a related field.
• Proven track record of leading regional or global cultural initiatives in complex, matrixed organisations
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal), with the ability to build relationships, influence senior leaders / committees and inspire teams to deliver agreed objectives
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret culture and engagement data and translate insights into action
• Proficient in project management with the ability plan and prioritise competing demands
• Knowledge of organisational development, change management and leadership development principles and practices
• Passion for creating and fostering a positive work environment that promotes collaboration, innovation, and employee engagement.

What we offer

For all the expertise and experience you bring to help us make a difference, it’s only sustainable if we support you to build your career and be your best self so we offer competitive company benefits, centred around promoting positive well-bring and work-life balance. We also believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, where all team members perspectives and contributions are valued. Initiatives in place which promote a diverse and inclusive culture and healthy work life balance include hybrid working, Sport & Social Clubs and Diversity and Inclusion networks.

As an employee of SMBC you have access to a host of both useful and exciting benefit offerings. See below some of the benefits on offer to you:

• Hybrid and flexible working 
• Competitive paid leave days
• Benefits to support your physical wellbeing, including private medical insurance and life and invalidity insurance 
• Various policies to support your mental wellbeing, including a robust behavioural health network with counselling and coaching services  
• Access a wide range of learning and development opportunities and career progression opportunities 
• Ambitious remuneration package

So, if you like a challenge and want to continuously grow and develop in a role where you will be supported along the way by a dynamic and diverse team, apply today!!