FuturExec:  The Academy - Spotlight on… Sara Edge, HR Business Partner at Certas Energy

In our latest interview in our ‘FuturExec:  The Academy - Spotlight on...’ series, we speak to Sara Edge, HR Business Partner at Certas Energy. Sara was part of our initial cohort on our inaugural programme of FuturExec: The Academy and is continuing on the programme in 2024. Here, Leanne Boddy speaks to Sara about what inspired her to work within HR, why having a non-linear career journey is a good thing, as well as sharing her ambitions and the best pieces of career advice she has received.

What inspired you to work within HR in particular?

After University, I was fortunate to secure a position in a graduate IT role. Whilst the role offered valuable experiences, I soon realised it wasn't aligned with my long-term aspirations. Reflecting on my early career experiences, I recalled the impactful inductions led by HR teams which gave me a sense of motivation and belonging within the organisation I was joining. In pursuit of a more fulfilling career path with a people focus, I delved into some online research. It was during this that I stumbled upon how diverse an HR role really could be. What initially captivated me were the opportunities to engage with colleagues, shape organisational culture, and facilitate career progression. I now know HR is so much more than this, but being a people person, I decided to give it a go and it was the best decision I made.

Tell me about your career to date and how you got into the HR function.

I knew that a career shift into HR without prior experience was going to be a challenge. So, to stand out, I immersed myself in online resources such as webinars and free HR certification courses to take them into the interviews that I was offered.

The first role I secured was as an HR Administrator at an adult social care charity. Within a year, I was promoted to HR Advisor. It was a perfect generalist role that allowed me to really understand all areas of HR; it was then that I knew I made the right decision.

At the same time and out of nowhere, after helping out a family member with their wedding invitations, I started an invitation design business which became very successful. So much so that I decided to leave HR and have my own business for the next 5 years. It was invaluable to learn how to run a business, and I really do think this furthered my HR career too. When the Covid pandemic happened, all weddings were postponed so I had a decision to make - wait it out or start my career again. I chose to go back into HR, and I have not regretted that decision.

I was fortunate to join a pharmaceutical company as HR Coordinator, before being promoted to Advisor, and then Junior Business Partner. After three years, I decided to try a new sector and I am now a People Partner at Certas Energy, working with the Renewables division of the business. This transition has brought my career full circle as I studied Geography at University, with a real focus on renewable energy!

What are some of the core skills you feel HR professionals need in order to really help organisations progress?

My top three skills would be communication, influence, and adaptability. In HR, the pace can be fast, especially when partnering with growing organisations. The ability to make timely decisions while ensuring everyone is informed and aligned is crucial.

How do you feel being a participant on Macmillan Davies’ FuturExec: The Academy has helped your career over the last 12 months?

It’s been invaluable, from networking with like-minded HR professionals, even down to the Q&A with successful leaders in the field. Every component has accelerated my knowledge to take back into my day-to-day.

My favourite session has been the first session of 2023 with Alyson Fadil about her career journey – and it was great to hear from someone whose HR career also wasn’t linear which was a real confidence boost!

What are your career ambitions?

Presently, I am very happy as a People Partner, I have a year’s experience at this level, and the job is so diverse that there is so much to learn. Through my career, I have realised that I have a passion for the operational side of HR, particularly HR efficiency, AI within HR, and process improvement, so it may be an option to specialise in the future!

What is the best piece of career advice you have received?

I have two and I can’t choose between them!

From the very first Academy session - Alyson Fadil said “It’s okay that your HR career isn’t linear, this is where you find out what excites you and allows you to become well-rounded. If it’s progression, a side step, or a step back, you’ll learn new skills you never had!”

The second, is from one of my brilliant mentors, who taught me to always remember the person at the end of any process and to treat them with dignity and respect.

Find out more

To find out more about our programme, please click here.

If you would like to nominate anyone from your HR team to join The Academy or find out how you can support the programme by speaking at future events, please get in touch using the details below:
Leanne Boddy
07506 755 660
lboddy@mdhr.co.uk