Introducing Kate Harrison IPL Brightgreens HR Generalist.
Name: Kate Harrison
Title at IPL Brightgreen: HR Generalist
Background and Journey
What first drew you to IPL Brightgreen?
Manufacturing has always been one of my favourite sectors. No two days are ever the same. I have worked with prosthetic limbs, EV buses, and now recycling. While you can take HR into any industry, it is the people and the purpose of the company that make a role worthwhile. What IPL Brightgreen achieves and the impact we have on sustainability is paramount to me.
Can you walk us through your career path? Which roles or experiences shaped you?
I have been in HR for over 20 years, working across various sectors including retail, finance, and manufacturing. Every role has brought unique challenges. I believe that in HR, you never truly see it all, there is always something new, whether it is future company strategy or changes in legislation. That fast pace is exactly what keeps me in the profession and has shaped my approach.
What has been your most memorable project to date?
I started my HR career at a well known DIY chain, and one of my proudest moments was supporting the team in opening a new store. This involved recruiting over 100 employees and managing training from the initial foundations through to opening day. Having started with that company years prior as a weekend checkout operator, seeing that store still thriving today makes it an incredibly rewarding memory.
Was there a particular mentor who influenced your approach?
In 2008, I was eager to progress to the next level of my career and joined a discount food retailer. My manager and colleagues at the time were incredibly supportive of both my professional and personal life. They shared insights and knowledge that made a challenging environment feel fun and exciting. They took a chance on me, and I truly believe that if they had not made that job offer, I would not be where I am today. We remain close friends over 15 years later.
Day to Day and Approach
What is your management philosophy for leading teams and HR initiatives?
My approach is centred on fairness, transparency, and building trust. HR plays a vital role in supporting both employees and the business, so I believe in listening first, understanding different perspectives, and working collaboratively to find balanced solutions. Creating an environment where people feel supported and treated fairly is key.
What do you find most rewarding about your role?
The most rewarding part of HR is supporting people through different stages of their careers. Whether it is helping to resolve a challenge, supporting professional development, or seeing someone progress within the company, it is wonderful to know that our work has a positive impact on both individuals and the wider business.
IPL Brightgreen Culture
How would you describe the company culture in three words?
Supportive, team focused, and hardworking.
What has surprised you in a positive way about working here?
I was most surprised by how passionate people are about their work. There is a strong sense of teamwork across the site. It is great to be part of a company that plays such an important role in sustainability while having such dedicated people behind the scenes.
Personal Insights
What skill have you developed on the job that is unexpectedly useful in everyday life?
Active listening is definitely one. In HR, you must listen to truly understand different perspectives, and that skill is just as valuable outside of work. I also find myself carrying a notebook everywhere to jot things down, a habit from the office that has definitely crossed over into my daily life.
If you could give your younger self one piece of career advice, what would it be?
Do not be afraid to ask questions and never stop learning. Early in your career, it is easy to feel as though you should know everything, but being curious is one of the best ways to grow and build confidence.
What is the best piece of professional advice you have ever received?
“Never change who you are, instead, learn to adapt to your environment.” This advice has followed me through many different roles and is crucial when building professional relationships in HR.