My working day: Karen Morris, Group HR Director, NM Group

Learning from your peers is very important when it comes to overcoming challenges and adapting to new working environments. In a new series launched by HRD Connect we find out how your peers shape and craft their working days.

Karen Morris, Group HR Director, NM GroupWhat is the first thing you do when you wake up? Have a shower.

What is your commute like to work?
Variable, but generally a 30-minute drive to head office

What is the first thing you do when you get to the office/start working?
Say good morning to those of the team who are in the office.

Can you talk me through a typical morning for you?
There is no typical morning working in HR, but it’s the variety I love and why I chose this career. Generally, I will have a brief update with the senior members of my team on the days planned activities to discuss the salient issues. Then there will be a number of planned meetings to work on the outputs of the HR business strategy.

What do you have for lunch?
A pre-prepared sandwich or leftovers from our evening meal the night before.

Do you feel more productive in the morning, or after lunch?
I used to be more productive in the afternoon, but that has changed in the past couple of years and I am now more productive in the morning.

What do you think is the best way to motivate a team?
Trust and empowerment.

What does a typical afternoon look like for you?
Every day is different and always presents new challenges, but generally I will lead or attend meetings with the team and external stakeholders to review and plan our latest initiatives and commitments to the wider business.

What is the one thing you never forget to do throughout your day?
Drink water.

What time do you leave work?
Anytime between 5 and 6.30pm, depending on the activities that day.

Do you think you have a good work/life balance?
North Midland Construction trusts its people and is very flexible to accommodate your personal circumstances. For example, I have an 11-year-old son. Since he started full-time education, the company has allowed me to work at home one day each week to allow me to take and collect him from school.

What do you do in the evenings?
Life is busy so during the day so I spend quality time with my family.

A bit about you…

What is your personal career highlight?
Becoming the first ever group HR director in the company’s 72-year history. Also, being interviewed by Ian King Live on Sky News in front of 14 million viewers worldwide.

What do you do to unwind?
Exercise and socialising with our friends.

What is your favourite food?
Fillet steak and sweet potato fries.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Treat others how you would like to be treated yourself.

What would you like to be remembered for?
Being a role model and mentor to women in construction.