Paul Renshaw has taken up the newly created position of group HR director at construction firm David McLean. The role will cover all three divisions of the company – construction, homes and development. He will head the HR team, reporting to the group finance director.
Where did you work before and what were your duties?
I was working at [private healthcare provider] Bupa as commercial projects manager, following a promotion from HR manager. Before that I was a regional personnel manager for retailer Matalan.
Which aspects are you most looking forward to?
Ensuring that David McLean becomes an employer of choice within our industry.
What is the strangest situation you have been in at work?
Being in a disciplinary hearing and having someone attempt to jump out of the window.
How do you think the role of HR will change over the next five years?
I think it should get back to some of the basics such as employee welfare and staff satisfaction. Many practitioners seem to have either forgotten about this or don’t feel it’s important in today’s world of HR.
Who is the ultimate guru?
Brian Potter, the ‘hero’ of TV show Phoenix Nights.
What is your essential viewing?
Phoenix Nights.
What’s the best thing about HR?
The ability to change people’s behaviour.
And the worst?
Managing the reality of not always having measurable outcomes to your work
How do you fill your spare time?
At the moment, renovating our house and walking the dog. I’m also an avid armchair Manchester United fan.
What is the greatest risk you have ever taken?
Leaving a job at Marks & Spencer to travel the world for 18 months.
Do you network?
Not as much as I should, but in my new role this will become more important.
What is the essential tool in your job?
Personality and integrity.
And the most over-rated?
E-mail – we all use it too much
If you could do any job in the world, what would it be?
Running a pub in the Lake District.
Who would play you in the film of your life and why?
Homer Simpson, we share a love of beer.
What’s the worst/best office party you’ve ever attended?
The best party was the one held in Cannes, where I met my wife to be.
Renshaw’s cv
2003 Group HR director David McLean
1998 Project and HR manager, Bupa
Sign up to our weekly round-up of HR news and guidance
Receive the Personnel Today Direct e-newsletter every Wednesday
1994 Regional personnel manager, Matalan
1988 Assistant personnel manager, Marks & Spencer
