The challenge: Managing daily HR operations while ensuring strategic alignment with EMEA leadership during transition
• Industry: Insurance
• Headcount: 165 employees (France)
• Client HQ: Australia / UK (EMEA)
• French Entity: Established in 1997
• Mission Duration: 3 years and 8 months (2020-2024)
QBE, a major Australian insurance company, needed interim HR leadership in France to ensure continuity and structure within the HR department during a period of transition.
The French office, with 165 employees, required day-to-day HR operations management, as well as strategic alignment with EMEA HR teams based in London.
They aimed to:
-Ensure HR stability during a period of change
-Implement key HR processes and manage day-to-day operations
-Preserve employee engagement and trust
-Maintain strategic alignment with EMEA HR teams in London
Seamless
interim HR leadership in France
An interim HR Director role was assumed to manage both strategic and operational responsibilities for the French office.
Day-to-Day HR Management
Full oversight of HR operations for 165 employees, including:
-Individual support and employee relations
-Policy enforcement and process management
-Coordination with French leadership
Performance Management
HReact designed and executed the annual performance review process, ensuring consistency, timely feedback, and documentation across all teams.
Employee Engagement
HReact implemented an employee satisfaction survey, conducted in-depth analysis, and delivered actionable recommendations to the leadership team.
Remote Work Policy
HReact reviewed and revised the existing Work From Home charter to align with business objectives and employee expectations.
Stakeholder Collaboration
HReact collaborated closely with EMEA HR counterparts in London to ensure seamless alignment on policies, reporting standards, and long-term HR strategy.
Recruitment
HReact managed recruitment campaigns from 2021 to 2024, covering approximately 10 positions per year (underwriting, business development, back-office support, etc.), ensuring efficient and accurate hiring through direct coordination with managers.
Effective performance review
and feedback structure implemented
Streamlined recruitment operations across all
business unit
What made the QBE collaboration successful came down to a few critical elements:
-Trusted relationship with local leadership and London HR teams
-Direct, regular contact with employees to ensure responsiveness and clarity
- Agile handling of both day-to-day issues and long-term planning
-Strong recruitment efficiency through direct briefings with hiring managers and regular debrief sessions, ensuring fast and relevant decision-making
Effective teamwork across local
and EMEA HR