What is a Part-Time HR Role?
A part-time HR role (also known as a fractional HR role) is a senior HR position where an experienced HR Director, CHRO, or People Partner provides strategic people leadership to companies on a flexible, part-time basis. Rather than committing to a single full-time role, part-time HR professionals typically work with multiple clients, dedicating 1-3 days per week to each engagement.
The demand for part-time HR jobs in the UK has grown significantly, driven by scale-ups, SMEs, and PE-backed companies that need senior HR expertise but cannot justify or afford a full-time hire. According to CIPD research, part-time senior roles have grown 43% since 2020.
Part-Time HR vs Full-Time HR
The key difference between a part-time HR professional and a traditional full-time HR Director lies in the engagement model. A full-time HR Director works exclusively for one company, typically earning £120,000-£150,000 annually plus benefits. A part-time HR Director, by contrast, works with 2-4 clients simultaneously, charging day rates of £900-£1,100.
For many experienced HR leaders, the part-time model offers significant advantages: higher effective hourly earnings, greater variety in work, portfolio diversification, and improved work-life balance. For companies, hiring a part-time HR professional provides access to senior talent at a fraction of the cost of a full-time hire.
Who Hires Part-Time HR?
Part-time HR roles are most common in the following company types:
- Scale-ups (30-150 employees) - Companies that have outgrown founder-led HR but aren't ready for a full-time CHRO
- VC/PE-backed companies - Portfolio companies that need professional HR leadership for growth
- SMEs building HR infrastructure - Businesses that need to establish proper contracts, policies, and processes
- Companies facing complex ER - Organisations dealing with tribunals, restructuring, or difficult situations
- Startups preparing for fundraising - Companies needing professional HR for investor due diligence
Part-Time HR Salary and Day Rates
Part-time HR compensation in the UK typically ranges from £700 to £1,300 per day, depending on seniority, specialisation, and location. London-based roles command premium rates, often paying £950-£1,300 per day for senior HR Directors.
A part-time HR Director working 2-3 days per week across multiple clients can realistically earn £120,000-£180,000 annually. The most experienced fractional CHROs with strong networks can earn significantly more.
Key Responsibilities
Part-time HR responsibilities typically include:
- People strategy development and execution
- Complex employee relations management
- HR infrastructure building (policies, contracts, HRIS)
- Talent acquisition strategy and senior hiring
- Performance management frameworks
- Culture development and engagement
- UK employment law compliance
- Board reporting and investor relations
How to Find Part-Time HR Roles
Finding part-time HR opportunities requires a different approach than traditional job search. Key sources include:
- Specialist platforms: Fractional Quest, interim HR networks
- VC/PE networks: Portfolio company HR referrals
- Professional networks: CIPD, HR Directors forums, LinkedIn
- Referrals: Other founders, CEOs, and fractional executives