HR audit | HR support | New employees | HR software | Employment Contracts | Handbooks | HR policy | Employee Relations | Training
About Me
Hi, I’m Dawn Packham — founder of Helix HR Consulting and complete people enthusiast!
Before launching Helix HR, I spent more than 25 years working in senior HR roles, encompassing the hospitality, recruitment, retail, electrical and electronic engineering industries. I’ve worked as part of established teams and I’ve also set up full HR departments from scratch! It’s safe to say, my heart has always been in HR!
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Through that time, I’ve always had a senior place at the table, working with leadership teams or the board, supporting the top level of business operations.
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So, I understand the realities of running a business! The pace, the pressure, the need to balance commercial goals with looking after people properly. I know what it’s like to build an HR function from scratch, to support teams through growth and change, and to deal with those “oh no” moments when something goes wrong. That’s why I started Helix HR. To give small businesses the kind of HR support that’s proactive, personal, and straightforward.
I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all templates or stuffy corporate speak. Everything I do is designed specifically for your business, your culture, and your people. Whether we’re creating contracts, policies, or handling complex employee issues, I’ll always explain things clearly and help you make decisions you feel good about.
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I’m CIPD Level 7 qualified, which means I’ve got the knowledge and experience to keep you compliant, but what really sets me apart is my approach.
I’m transparent, ethical, and very pragmatic. I won’t give you non-committal advice that sounds good on paper but doesn’t work in practice. And I won’t just tell you what you want to hear (sorry!). I’ll tell it like it is and work with you to find a path that’s fair, legal, and manageable.
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Outside of work, I’m an animal lover (you’ll probably see my dog Archie in the office), a keen baker and gardener, and someone who genuinely lights up when helping others succeed.