Employee Profile: Phil Venn
Meet Phil – HR Advisor at ODGroup
Phil took a leap of faith into HR and never looked back. With a strong belief in people, integrity, and doing things the right way, he’s shaping the employee experience at ODGroup from the inside out.
Phil didn’t start his career in HR—in fact, he moved into the field seven years ago after working as an Admin Manager in the NHS. It was there that his natural ability to support people through challenges was first recognised, and he was encouraged to consider HR full-time.
Soon after, he made the bold decision to leave a permanent role and join a fit-out company on a six-month fixed-term contract. Within two months, he was made permanent. Over six years, Phil transitioned from recruitment into a full HR advisory role, gaining end-to-end experience across the employee lifecycle.
In 2024, an opportunity came full circle. Former colleagues reached out about a role at ODGroup, and after meeting with the leadership team, Phil knew he’d found his next move.
“I loved the vision for the business and the role I could play in it—it was an easy yes.”
What does Phil do at ODGroup?
What does Phil do at ODGroup?Phil’s role is all about helping both the business and its people thrive. He advises managers, supports employees through all stages of their journey, and ensures ODGroup’s HR practices are thoughtful, inclusive, and future-focused.
“I coach, I guide, and I support—but ultimately, I’m here to make sure people feel valued, listened to, and equipped to do their best work.”
Favourite parts of the job
“Oh there are so many, but to name a few:
- Empowering people to own their development.
- Coaching managers to lead with confidence and clarity.
- Supporting employees through absence and return-to-work journeys.
- Designing thoughtful, people-first processes across the employee lifecycle.
- Helping shape and roll out meaningful benefits.”
Impact projects at ODGroup
- Revamping the employee lifecycle
From the first offer to an employee’s final day, Phil led a full overhaul of ODGroup’s approach to onboarding and offboarding. Welcome letters, HR inductions, buddy systems, check-ins, exit interviews—the process is now more structured, more personal, and far more impactful.
“It’s about helping people feel connected from day one. It sets us apart, not just from others in our industry, but from many companies full stop.”
- Introducing new benefits
Phil helped develop and implement ODGroup’s latest employee benefits, including purchased annual leave, birthday days off, payroll giving, and long-service recognition. These were the result of in-depth research and a clear understanding of what people really value at work.
“It’s about rewarding people meaningfully, not just ticking a box. Our new benefits show that we listen, we care, and we’re doing things differently from many industry-leading businesses.”
Career milestone
Phil’s proudest academic achievement? Scoring the highest possible mark in his CIPD Level 5 diploma. It’s a reflection of his dedication to doing things thoroughly and getting the detail right, values that define how he works every day.
What drives Phil?
He’s motivated by continuous learning, driving change, and using HR as a positive force within the business.
“It’s not about being the voice of rules and policies, it’s about empowering people and making the business stronger through good practice.”
Biggest career challenge?
Being part of a major HR system rollout while still handling his day job, it was a gruelling period that saw Phil working two shifts a day, clocking up 16-hour days for over three months.
“I wouldn’t change it, it taught me resilience and showed me what I’m capable of when I’m fully committed to something.”
Phil’s impact goes beyond processes and policies—he’s someone who always brings genuine energy to the business. First and foremost, he loves his bike (and won’t hesitate to tell you about his latest ride!), but second Phil brings purpose, perspective, and a human approach to everything he does at ODGroup.
Whether it’s helping someone through a tough time or driving forward big initiatives, he’s all about creating a better workplace for everyone. He’s always upbeat and never without a smile, he brightens the day for many, and in doing so, he’s helping shape a culture at ODGroup that truly sets us apart.
