We’ve been meaning to pull something like this together for a while. The things we’d tell you over a coffee – what’s happening in the market, what we’re working on and what’s worth knowing. Consider this our first edition. We hope it becomes something you look forward to.
How's the HR market?
It’s in better shape than this time last year. While Easter and school holidays traditionally slow the surface momentum down a little, the underlying activity is strong and companies are still full steam ahead. Companies are hiring – but it’s targeted and specific.
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At the executive end
More roles have hit the market in 2026, which is a positive sign, but supply is still outpacing demand. Given the focus for HR has shifted heavily toward governance, risk and regulation – the focus is on talent at this level to clearly demonstrate their experience across compliance, people risk and the ability to work seamlessly alongside Legal and Technology teams. If you are at this level and the job search is feeling like a grind, keep leaning on your networks – we’re seeing the most amount of success there. We’re a phone call away if you need a sounding board.
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Across the market
We don’t think we’ve seen this many hands up in a long time! Don’t read this wrong. People aren’t frantically job hunting by any means. They’re selective, watching the market – but certainly interested in having conversations. Given there are more roles in the market than what we saw last year, demand for top HR talent has naturally increased and that’s creating a bit of competition. Literally – we’ve seen a number of candidates land multiple offers at once over the last quarter. So if you’re hiring, we’d suggest moving efficiently and with pace – make your process seamless. Hesitation is expensive in this market.
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Fixed-term contracts are surging
Businesses bringing in specialists to solve something specific, deliver a defined outcome and move on. If you’re a niche specialist in ER, Workforce Planning, Systems or Change, this is a very good time to be in the market.
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What's driving it? Transformation
It’s everywhere. Operating model redesigns, restructures, process automation, AI integration, shared service reviews. HR leaders are juggling the process of change alongside attempting to harness culture and people. Transformation experience is currency right now.
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Change fatigue
A large portion of the market has been through restructure after restructure and they’re running on empty. The pace isn’t slowing. Are you close enough to your people to see it before it becomes an attrition or culture problem? That’s the question we’d be asking right now.
If your CV reads like a job description, it’s time to refresh it. People leaders want to see impact, not responsibilities.
Same goes for LinkedIn. If you haven’t touched it in a year or two, now’s the time. Fresh photo, key achievements and titles that reflect how the market talks about your role.
What we're working on
Click through for the detail and to apply. Roles as they stood when this edition went out.
P&C Systems & Reporting Lead
A high calibre financial services business mid-merger integration. You'll own the HRIS environment (SAP SuccessFactors), lead people reporting and play a key role in integrating systems and data across both organisations. High visibility, hands on and genuinely interesting.
Now closedOrganisational Development Manager
Sits within an established OD function working closely with senior leaders. Designing and embedding leadership and development initiatives that strengthen capability, support succession and improve the employee experience.
Now closedSenior ER/IR Advisor
For an ER/IR specialist who wants to operate at the deep end of the discipline. A large, complex business that'll keep you sharp.
Now closedLearning & Leadership Partner
A globally recognised tech and data business. Not tick-box L&D. Genuine behaviour and mindset shifts in leadership. Real scope to shape something.
Now closedHR Automation & Systems Specialist
A clear mandate to redesign, automate and future-proof how a growing HR function operates. Executive support to make it happen.
Now closedSenior People Partner
Reporting into an HR Director we know well. Commercial, grounded and trusted. A strong environment with good leadership above you.
Now closedSenior HR Business Partner
A financial services business that takes people strategy as seriously as commercial strategy. Built a reputation for doing HR well.
Now closedManager, Global Graduate Recruitment
At the forefront of Australia's technology and data landscape. A genuine opportunity to shape something meaningful.
Now closedSalary still matters. But the question we keep hearing from senior HR candidates is:
Who would I be working under and what is that leader like?
Our 2026 event calendar is taking shape. If you’d like to be kept across what we have coming up, reach out and we’ll make sure you’re on the list.
Let's talk.
Whether you're thinking about your next move, looking to hire or just want an honest read on the HR market, we'd love to hear from you.
