Meet Laura O’Keeffe, Sheldon Bosley Knight’s new head of HR. Having never worked within the land and property sector before, Laura has wasted no time in getting herself acquainted with the teams across our business! In the short time she’s been with us, she has been out visiting staff and branches, working with them to understand their roles, duties and responsibilities and find ways to help them achieve their goals.

What is your role and what does your job entail?

I support employees and managers to create a fair, positive and productive workplace. My role covers recruitment, onboarding, performance management, employee relations and wellbeing initiatives. A typical day involves advising managers, responding to staff queries, reviewing HR data and improving processes. The focus is always on helping people feel supported while enabling the organisation to run efficiently.

What did you do before joining Sheldon Bosley Knight?

I worked in the gaming industry for a year for a company named Kwalee, I was an HR business partner. I have worked in various industries in HR predominantly retail where I spent 18 years. This is the first time I have worked in the property industry.

What attracted you to working for Sheldon Bosley Knight?

Sheldon Bosley Knight is a growing company, with a great reputation, so I knew this would be a step up in my career progression where I can continue to grow and develop my skills.

What’s the best bit about your job?

Helping and supporting people – I love ensuring people feel valued and feel like they belong.

What qualifications or training do you need to do this job?

Level 7 CIPD qualification in people management as well as lots of experience.

What motivates you to work hard?

Having a great sense of purpose, feeling valued and knowing I’m continually supporting the development of a great culture to attract and retain staff.

Who or what inspires you?

I have been inspired by many HR leaders in my career who I have worked with, all of whom combine strategic thinking with genuine care for people.

What are your career goals?

To become a chief HR people officer (CHRPO) or HR director.

What do you do when you are not at work?

I love walking my boxer dog Pippa, reading, particularly contemporary romantic fiction, relaxing and spending quality time with my family and friends.

What is the best piece of career advice you have ever been given?

Don’t take things personally.