About Kate Edwards
HR Backed by Experience
Welcome to Kate Edwards HR Solutions. I’m Kate – an experienced HR Consultant and Workplace Mediator, offering clear and pragmatic support. I help individuals and organisations confidently navigate people-related challenges.
Whether you’re facing conflict, planning a restructure, or looking for HR compliance support, I work with you to find practical solutions. These are based on over 25 years of hands-on experience across various sectors.
My HR Journey
From a small village in Norfolk to Teesside, Essex – and even a stint in New Zealand – my journey into HR has been anything but typical.
After travelling and working abroad, I returned to the UK and discovered a passion for people management during a graduate role. With encouragement from colleagues, I went back to university as a mature student. I completed a BA in Human Resource Management and gained CIPD membership at the same time.
Since then, I’ve worked in education, social housing, and the not-for-profit sector. This included leading an HR department at a large independent school.
After more than a decade in that role – including steering the organisation through the pandemic – I decided it was time for a new challenge. In 2022, I launched Kate Edwards HR Solutions to offer independent, flexible HR support.
Why I Do What I Do
Throughout my career, I’ve seen how open, honest conversations can prevent and resolve workplace issues. That’s why I take a straightforward and practical approach with my clients.
I believe in exploring all the options and helping you understand the risks and likely outcomes. For me, trust is key. I always aim to give balanced advice and clear, fair solutions.
This belief also led me to become a qualified Workplace Mediator. Mediation allows me to support organisations and individuals at challenging moments. It’s work I genuinely enjoy and find incredibly rewarding.
What I Offer
I provide tailored HR consultancy and workplace mediation services across Essex and the UK. This includes:
- Conflict resolution and employment mediation
- Employee relations advice and investigations
- HR support for schools, charities, housing associations and SMEs
- Restructures, staff exits and compliance guidance
- Policies, handbooks and contract templates
Whether you need a one-off mediation or ongoing HR support, I’m here to help.
Credentials at a Glance
With over 25 years of HR experience across multiple sectors, I’m a Chartered Member of the CIPD and an accredited Workplace Mediator. My advice is shaped by practical experience, professional training, and a commitment to fair, effective outcomes.
Outside of Work
I live in Essex with my husband Paul, our two teenagers, and a very energetic Spanish Water Dog. I’m a keen reader, cinema-goer, and reluctant gym member – but walking is my real passion.
I’ve completed the Million Steps Challenge for Diabetes UK and recently took part in a 24km walk for life for Farleigh Hospice. It’s just as well I like walking, as I also love eating out!
I’m passionate about helping people feel heard – both in and out of work – and believe everyone deserves a workplace where they can thrive.
Fun Facts About Me
- I did a bungee jump at the original site in Queensland, New Zealand
- I grew up in the 90s rave scene (glowsticks and all!)
- I’m working my way through the world’s top 100 gins – recommendations welcome!
- I thrive on thinking on my feet and love helping others tackle tricky people problems
I hope this gives you a feel for who I am and how I work. If you’d like to connect, you’ll find all the details below.