Joanne Smith

Human Resources

HR DIRECTOR

Department: HR
Started STR Group: 2018
Experience: Jo Smith has over 30 years’ experience in HR, beginning her career in 1994 and developing a broad consultancy background across organisations of varying scale. She joined STR initially as a part-time HR Manager before rapidly progressing to Group HR Director, reflecting both her capability and the evolving needs of the business. Her expertise spans core HR, organisational development and talent strategy, underpinned by experience gained both in-house and as an independent consultant.
Leadership: At leadership level, Jo manages a multi-disciplinary HR function covering HR, Learning & Development and Talent Acquisition, while also operating as a Board Director. She plays a key role in shaping business culture, purpose and values, and leads the Group’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy. Her leadership is centred on building high-performing people frameworks and strengthening employee engagement, with a clear focus on positioning STR as an employer of choice.