We value getting to know all about the clients we work with and the faces behind the brands and businesses. Naturally we expect you to want to know more about us too.

To help with that, we’ll be bringing you regular insights into our team, sharing what they love about their work, how they spend their time outside of the office, and what book or film they’re currently immersed in.

Our latest team profile feature Sophie Hughes, who believes in taking a holistic approach to HR, and loves time in the gym and going on long walks in her spare time.

NAME – Sophie Hughes

ROLE – HR Consultant

AREA YOU COVER – Suffolk

Where do you live?

Ipswich.

Tell us a little about your career background:

I started off as an Admin Assistant and after a couple of years transferred internally to the HR department – I have stayed in HR ever since! I have been in various roles from an HR Administrator, HR Officer, HR Manager, to now HR Consultant.

What do you most enjoy about your particular professional role?

I am very passionate about HR, so when I saw that this is one of MAD-HR’s PARIS values (passionate, accountability, results, integrity and simplicity), I instantly felt that our values were aligned. I enjoy making a positive difference to our clients, ensuring they are legally compliant, following best practice but with a tailored approach to suit each and every one of our clients.

What attracted you into the world of HR?

An internal position became available in the company I was working for at the time and although I had no experience or qualifications in HR, I took a chance by applying for the role and it paid off and I haven’t looked back since! At the time I enjoyed onboarding new starters, the administration involved and the variety of the role. My role is incredibly different now, but I believe in building those solid foundations and experiencing every element of HR to provide advice with a more holistic approach.

Do you have a pet peeve about how others perceive your job?

When HR gets classed as an administration role! There are so many elements to HR and administration is only one element of that. Undoubtedly, good administration skills are critical in this role but unfortunately HR is still a department that can be overlooked. Having a dedicated HR professional on your team isn’t a luxury, it’s essential. MAD-HR are highly trained to deal with the complexities of employment law, keeping businesses legally compliant and their employees engaged.

If you hadn’t gone into this type of work, what else were you destined to do?

Growing up, I either wanted to be a child counsellor or primary school teacher. However, the thought of going to university didn’t appeal to me. So although I fell into HR, it has elements of both of these roles: the advice and support element and the learning and development/training aspect.

What one key thing do you feel people should know about MAD-HR that might surprise or delight them?

Our advice is completely tailored to our clients as we recognise that every business is different. We take the time to form solid relationships with our clients and discover exactly what makes their business special, where they want to get to and road-map any challenges they’re likely to encounter.

What are you most looking forward to in the year ahead for MAD-HR?

Our continued growth – the team has expanded to 11 members over the last few months, and we all bring our unique knowledge and experiences with us. Our focus has always been to support our clients and deliver a first-class service – our Feefo Gold Accreditation speaks for itself! So with a larger team, we are able to expand our client base and support businesses across Suffolk, Norfolk and Essex.

How would your colleagues describe you?

Committed, reflective, supportive.

Outside of work, do you have particular things you like to do or places you like to go regularly?

I spend most weekends at the gym (rewarded with the spa facilities after an intense workout!) or going on a long walk – Alton Water is one of my favourite places to walk.

What do you love most about living in this part of the world?

Well it’s certainly not the weather! I enjoy going on long walks, and there are plenty of walks, whether it be along the beach, through the forest or around a lake.

How do you like to spend a day off? 

I like to use my days off to spend time with my friends. Juggling home and work life can be busy so it’s important to schedule quality, uninterrupted time together.

Currently watching: ‘Lie with me’ for something that is more gripping, F1 Grand Prix for sports and ‘Married at First Sight’ for a reality TV binge!

Find out how you can join the MAD-HR team…