Meet the Team

We support every stage of the employee journey. Whether it's hiring, engaging, managing, restructuring, or offboarding- we’re by your side, helping you make confident decisions that make sense for your people and your business.

Emma Harvey
FCPID, Accredited Workplace Mediator
CO-Founder & CEO

With almost 30 years’ experience in HR delivery, design and consultancy, Emma is passionate about making HR practical and accessible for business owners. She works with SMEs and larger organisations to build strong cultures, manage risk and deliver people strategies that support growth.

After two decades in blue-chip environments, Emma founded Candid HR in 2018 to bring that same level of expertise to a wider market. Outside of work, she is mum to two teenagers and Frankie, the much-loved office mascot.

Read Emma’s Feature in Entrepreneur >

Helen Lewis
MA Human Resources
HR and Client Delivery Director

With over 25 years’ experience in HR and recruitment, Helen brings deep expertise and a people-first mindset to Candid HR. She leads client delivery, ensuring a seamless service while building strong, lasting relationships that help businesses perform and grow.

Known for her collaborative and supportive style, Helen works closely with clients to solve challenges and drive results. Outside of work, she is a proud mum and a devoted dog lover.

Laura Hodgson
CIPD Level 5
Senior HR Business Partner

Laura brings over a decade of experience in people-focused roles, with a background in recruitment before moving into HR in 2020. She supports clients with everything from hiring and policies to complex situations, always with a calm, practical approach.

Working closely with growing businesses, Laura helps shape culture, improve performance and support long-term people strategies. Outside of work, she is a busy mum of two and enjoys travel, family time and new adventures. 

Janet Dakin
MCIPD, MHCIMA
HR Business Partner

With over 30 years’ experience in HR, Janet offers clients clear, practical guidance across a wide range of employment matters. Her approach combines strong expertise with a calm, supportive style that helps businesses navigate challenges with confidence.

Her career spans multiple sectors and senior roles, including Director of HR in further education. Outside of work, Janet enjoys walking, gardening, cooking and keeping active.

Clare Langfield

CIPD Level 5

Senior HR Business Partner

Clare brings over 12 years of in-house HR experience, with a strong focus on employee relations and the wider employee lifecycle. She supports clients through complex situations with a balanced, practical and solutions-led approach.

With a background in commercial roles, she offers a well-rounded perspective that aligns people decisions with business needs. Outside of work, Clare enjoys travel, painting and outdoor challenges with her dog.

Kelly Marks
Part CIPD Level 5
HR Advisor

Kelly brings over five years’ experience across HR and people management within the tech and recruitment sectors. She supports clients with policies, processes and day-to-day HR needs, always taking a practical and people-focused approach.

She is passionate about developing her skills and growing her HR expertise as part of the Candid team. Originally from Ireland, Kelly enjoys spending time with family and being outdoors with her young son.

Emma Laverty
Executive Assistant

With over 20 years’ experience as a PA and Office Manager, Emma brings organisation, efficiency and energy to Candid HR. She supports the team across all areas of the business, helping everything run smoothly behind the scenes.

From diary management to marketing and operations, she keeps things on track so the team can focus on clients. Outside of work, Emma enjoys the gym, socialising and holidays with her family.

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