We’re delighted to share CIPD's spotlight on Gemma Connor, HR Director at the Whisky Auctioneer Group. Gemma plays a vital role in supporting our teams and driving the success of our business with her dedication, expertise, and people-first approach. ???? The Q&A offers great insight into Gemma’s work and the invaluable contribution of HR to Scotland’s iconic whisky industry. You can read the full article by clicking the link below ? #HRLeadership #WhiskyIndustry #TeamSpotlight
For Burns Night, we have a profile below of Gemma Connor, a CIPD member who works in Scottish whisky, an industry that contributes ￡5.3 billion to the UK economy. Gemma is HR Director at Whisky Auctioneer Group and Royal Mile Whiskies. We asked her six key questions. 1. Tell us how you got into HR?? I started working part-time in the finance department of Whisky Auctioneer after having my first child. At the time, the business was rapidly expanding, and it became clear that we needed someone to focus on HR. I was given the opportunity to step into the role, which was both exciting and challenging, as I had no prior experience in HR. I worked hard to develop my skills on the job while completing my CIPD qualification, which gave me both practical and theoretical insights. This journey allowed me to shape the HR function from the ground up, aligning it with the needs of an evolving organisation. Looking back, I’m proud of how this unique path provided a solid foundation for my career in HR.? ? 2. What does your current role involve?? As HR Director, my role is both strategic and operational, covering a wide range of responsibilities. I oversee recruitment, employee relations, policy development, compliance, and performance management, ensuring these align with the company’s goals. My role also includes supporting the organisation through acquisitions, ensuring smooth integration into the group when necessary.? I work across multiple group companies in different locations, including the UK and EU, which requires navigating differing employment laws and tailoring approaches to meet varying operational needs. This dynamic and multifaceted role allows me to contribute to the organisation’s growth while supporting a diverse and evolving workforce. My role is varied and challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact of these efforts on both the organisation and its employees. Click below to read Gemma's answers to four more questions. #CIPD #peopleprofession #burnsnight #Scotland