On demand HR Services
Meet the team
Julia Crawford (FCIPD)
Founder and Director
After doing an A-level in law, I initially wanted to study law at university. However, I realised that my memory wasn't good enough, so I decided to do business studies with a psychology degree instead in Canterbury, which I loved.
HR incorporates the law, business, and psychology, so it's a great fit.
Since then, I have been a learning junkie and studied for my professional qualifications and am now a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.
I also completed a postgraduate certificate in the Psychology of Organisation Change, my Master's in HR Management, and, more recently, an apprenticeship in Coaching (plus a few others as well).
I have worked for various organisations in various industries, including the public sector, retail, manufacturing, and aviation.
I used to say I went into HR because I enjoy working with people. I laugh at that statement now because people can sometimes be very frustrating.
What I've learnt is that I love working with the challenges that people create. I enjoy understanding how people think (or try to) and helping to develop solutions to problems.
I have always wanted to run my own business, and I started People Pillar because I needed to be challenged. I wanted to work with smaller companies where I knew I could add value and make a difference.
I also wanted to have the flexibility to decide what work I did and, more importantly, who I worked with. It was important to work with business owners who shared my values, and we could also have some fun along the way.
I get to work with amazing clients while having the flexibility to spend time with my family. I take Ralph and Nelly out for walks every day and watch my daughter play football (unless it's raining—that isn't much fun!!).
Juggling all of that is hard, but I understand how important it is to get the right people into your business and keep them, as that ultimately makes your life easier.
My idea of heaven would be travelling somewhere warm (that I haven't been before), reading a good book, and if you add some cheese and red wine into the mix, then happy days!!
Siobhan Harnedy (Associate CIPD)
Head of Client Services
I’m a fixer!! I enjoy fixing problems and making life easier for people.
I have worked in HR for around 10 years now, and I have done all sorts of things, including employee relations, operational HR, and HR administration. Most of my experience has come from banking, Local Government, and the Arts.
I have my CIPD Level 7 qualification, but I also have an amazing knack for finding out information about people and making them feel at ease. Whenever I go to a networking event, Julia laughs at me as I come away knowing that someone is on their third marriage and their cat's name!!
I enjoy spending time off with my partner Stephen, daughter Olivia and stepson Adam, mainly on our boat (which is far less glamorous than it sounds). Much of my family time is spent fishing (on the boat), canoeing, swimming and generally exploring Kent.
Rachel Shemi (Associate CIPD)
HR Consultant
I’ve been in HR for 20 years, covering everything from Employee Relations to Recruitment to Learning and Development.
I’ve got my CIPD Level 5 qualification, but I love looking at ways that I can help others which is why I am also an accredited Mediator and a Mental Health First Aider.
I live in Kent with my husband, Mehmet, and our daughter, Ayla. Since moving here from Bexleyheath, I've become much more outdoorsy, enjoying long walks and being close to the sea. In my free time, I love exploring the local area, and thanks to Mehmet's Cypriot background, I’m also a big fan of Mediterranean cuisine.
I am passionate about working in HR and I look forward to the exciting times ahead being a part of the People Pillar team.
Talia Axcell
HR Officer
With 18 years in HR and recruitment across various sectors, from investment banking to healthcare, I’ve had the joy of supporting teams and enhancing processes everywhere I go.
I’m a people person; nothing makes me happier than helping teams thrive.
Outside of work, life revolves around my two football-crazy kids. You’ll often find me on the sidelines cheering them on or watching West Ham with my husband.When we’re not at the pitch, I love practising yoga, paddleboarding when the sun is out, and getting lost in a good book on the beach.
Our Values
Happy Customers
Say Hello
©2021 - 2024 People Pillar HR | Privacy Policy