Five minutes with: Craig McCoy, Interim Executive Director of People at Metropolitan

Craig McCoy, Interim Executive Director of People at Metropolitan, says that HR Directors can’t be shrinking violets.

What do you think is the key to being successful in your role? 

As an Interim HR Director, it’s important to hit the ground running and quickly get to grips with the new organisation. That means getting to know the business, its key strategic issues, the culture (‘how things get done around here’) and how you will personally be able to make a difference.

You need to build relationships quickly and make your presence felt. Having a voice at the table is key, as HR Director you can’t be a shrinking violet! Being an interim helps, as you can afford to take a truly independent and objective view, without fear of jeopardising your long term career prospects. And it’s not just about people related issues; a good HR Director contributes more broadly to the overall commercial agenda of the organisation.