Harry Balmer

Motivated retail professional transitioning into Human Resources with over 4 years of leadership and
supervisory experience in large-scale retail operations. Skilled in recruitment, onboarding, coaching,
employee relations, and compliance, with a proven ability to lead teams of up to 27 staff and drive
improvements in performance and customer satisfaction. Currently undertaking a CIPD Foundation
Certificate in People Practice alongside a BA Honours in Business Management and Spanish,
demonstrating commitment to continuous professional development. Passionate about creating inclusive
and supportive workplaces where employees can thrive.

I’m a motivated retail professional transitioning into Human Resources, with over four years of leadership and supervisory experience in large-scale retail operations. I’ve managed and developed teams of up to 27 colleagues, driving improvements in performance, engagement, and customer satisfaction.

My experience spans recruitment, onboarding, coaching, employee relations, compliance, workforce planning, and payroll (Kronos/UKG). In my current role as Customer and Trading Manager at Sainsbury’s, I lead daily operations across two stores, oversee resource planning, and support HR processes including disciplinary cases and performance reviews.

Previously, at ASDA, I progressed from Retail Assistant to Section Leader, where I took on team leadership, compliance management, and customer service initiatives that consistently delivered strong results.

Alongside my professional roles, I’m studying for a CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice while completing a BA Honours in Business Management and Spanish. I’m passionate about creating inclusive, supportive workplaces where people feel valued and empowered to succeed.

I’m currently working towards a BA Honours Degree in Business Management and Spanish with the Open University, which is giving me a strong foundation in business strategy, operations, and cross-cultural communication.

Alongside this, I’m studying for a CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice with ICS Learn, which is helping me build practical HR knowledge in areas such as employee engagement, compliance, and people development.

I’m committed to continuous professional growth and plan to progress to higher CIPD levels as I advance in my HR career.