Debbie Middlemas
Scunthorpe,North Lincolnshire
Summary
Results-oriented professional specialising in strategic planning and senior leadership, with a proven track record of translating strategy into effective operational delivery. Extensive experience in driving organisational performance through robust processes, data-informed decision-making, and continuous improvement initiatives. Expertise in organisational development, complemented by exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills at all levels. Passionate about developing people and building capability, with a strong focus on coaching, mentoring, and creating learning environments that enable individuals and teams to thrive. Committed to enhancing workplace culture and leading transformative HR initiatives that deliver sustainable, people-centred outcomes.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work history
Head of Human Resources
Ramsden International
Grimsby, North Lincolnshire
01.2019 - 03.2026
- Engaged with executive and senior leadership teams to integrate HR initiatives with core business goals and enhance organisational effectiveness.
- Engage in strategic discussions with managing director to formulate and implement initiatives that streamline operations across departments.
- Promote values of collaboration and inclusivity within company culture to guide business decisions effectively.
- Facilitated data-driven insights to enhance workforce planning and talent acquisition strategies.
- Facilitated complex employee relations matters by implementing best practices and ensuring adherence to policies.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive recruitment strategies for senior appointments and remuneration policies.
- Drive continuous improvement through policy reviews to foster employee engagement initiatives and enhance performance management.
- Administer HR budget to ensure cost-effective solutions and facilitate comprehensive reporting on key initiatives.
- Key Achievements:
- Cultivated strong relationships with the CEO and leadership teams, fostering a high-performance, inclusive culture.
- Designed and led retention programmes over two years, focusing on staff development and satisfaction.
- Facilitated comprehensive talent assessments and realignments during post-Brexit restructuring to enhance operational efficiency across global markets..
- Developed and executed graduate and grow programmes, resulting in a year-on-year reduction in costs associated with external recruitment.
- Navigated challenges of covid-19 pandemic by implementing effective communication strategies and fostering collaboration among teams, resulting in sustained engagement and recognition from industry peers.
- Achieved highest employee engagement score by driving initiatives that fostered team collaboration and morale.
- Presented strategic insights to senior team, including CEO, highlighting benefits of hybrid working practices, thereby promoting enhanced team collaboration and engagement.
HR Manager
Ramsden International
Grimsby, North Lincolnshire
04.2015 - 01.2019
- Delivered a professional and efficient HR service, advising directors and management teams on HR best practices.
- Developed and implemented strategic business projects to drive efficiency and organisational growth.
- Managed employee relations, reward and recognition programs, training and development, and compliance.
- Oversaw payroll, pensions, recruitment (domestic and international), and GDPR compliance.
- Key Achievements:
- Successfully implemented a new UK payroll and pension provider, improving cost efficiency and user experience.
- Introduced an HR self-service portal, enhancing efficiency and reducing administrative burden.
- Led a successful workforce transition following a site relocation, retaining the majority of employees.
- Streamlined international HR processes, delivering cost savings of over £75,000.
- Secured permanent employment passes for key talent in Singapore, safeguarding £5 million in sales revenue.
Area HR Business Partner
Asda
04.2003 - 04.2015
- Delivered HR strategy across multiple regions, supporting operational excellence.
- Managed key HR metrics, including absence, retention, training, and legal compliance.
- Led talent development initiatives, diversity programs, and employee engagement efforts.
- Oversaw complex HR projects, including TUPE transfers, redundancy processes, and employment tribunal cases.
- Key Achievements:
- Transformed underperforming regions to achieve top rankings in HR performance.
- Successfully developed talent pipelines, promoting internal progression.
- Improved wage cost efficiencies and ensured 100% legal compliance across multiple locations.
Clerical Hub & Divisional Office Manager
Asda
03.2011 - 08.2012
- Launched HR Shared Services, delivering £1 million in savings.
Home Shopping Centre Regional HR Manager
Asda
09.2009 - 03.2011
- Led the HR function for a new operational model, recruiting 300+ employees.
General Store Manager
Asda
03.2007 - 09.2009
- Led a team of 450 colleagues, driving profitability and talent development.
HR Manager
Asda
01.2003 - 01.2007
Training Manager
Tesco
01.2002 - 01.2003
Fresh Manager
Morrison’s
01.1994 - 01.2002
Education
CIPD Level 5 - Human Resource Management
Grimsby Institute
Skills
- Leadership and team development
- Clear communication
- Influencing skills
- Workforce development and motivation
- Transition and change management
- Strategic planning
- Design and execution of HR strategy
- Human resources innovation
- Knowledge of employment law
- Compensation and pension management
- UK and international hiring
- Leadership proficiency
- Diversity and inclusion advocacy
- Conflict resolution capabilities
Certification
- Certified Mental Health First Aider
- Thomas International PPA & TEIQ Practitioner
References
Available upon request.
Hobbies & Interests
An avid reader with a passion for crime novels and mystery films. Enjoys challenging knowledge through quizzes and spending quality time with family, children, and grandchildren. Loves traveling, dining at fine restaurants, and indulging in spa treatments.
Timeline
Head of Human Resources
Ramsden International
01.2019 - 03.2026
HR Manager
Ramsden International
04.2015 - 01.2019
Clerical Hub & Divisional Office Manager
Asda
03.2011 - 08.2012
Home Shopping Centre Regional HR Manager
Asda
09.2009 - 03.2011
General Store Manager
Asda
03.2007 - 09.2009
Area HR Business Partner
Asda
04.2003 - 04.2015
HR Manager
Asda
01.2003 - 01.2007
Training Manager
Tesco
01.2002 - 01.2003
Fresh Manager
Morrison’s
01.1994 - 01.2002
CIPD Level 5 - Human Resource Management
Grimsby Institute