Michael Arkins

International HR Leader
Dublin, IE.

About

Results-driven International HR Leader with 18+ years of progressive experience in technology-driven and high-growth environments, specializing in SaaS, telecommunications, and PE-backed multinational settings. Proven track record of leading global HR functions, expertly scaling organizations, managing complex compliance frameworks, and driving transformational change. Excels in strategic HR leadership, international expertise, and operational excellence, consistently delivering measurable improvements in talent acquisition, employee engagement, and cost optimization.

Work

Cora
|

Chief HR Officer

Dublin, Dublin, Ireland

Summary

Led the global HR function for a multinational SaaS business, overseeing comprehensive organizational development and ensuring regulatory compliance across international operations.

Highlights

Developed a comprehensive 7-pillar HR strategy, resulting in a 27% ESG score improvement within six months.

Achieved a 92% reduction in recruitment costs through strategic talent acquisition optimization and AI implementation.

Delivered a 68% improvement in internal engagement by enhancing communication strategies.

Implemented AI-driven automation systems across multiple employment jurisdictions, reducing operational costs by 80%.

Managed organizational scaling initiatives, growing the employee base from 220 to 500+ in a private equity environment.

SHEIN
|

Head of HR & Business Operations (EMEA)

Dublin, Dublin, Ireland

Summary

Provided regional HR leadership across European and Middle Eastern operations for a $60B global fashion and lifestyle business, managing rapid expansion and foundational process development during 40% year-on-year headcount growth.

Highlights

Established regional HR headquarters and a Centre of Excellence, supporting significant business expansion across EMEA.

Implemented comprehensive corporate governance procedures across all European entities within 12 months, ensuring robust compliance during rapid growth.

Developed strategic workforce planning covering nine key international talent markets, optimizing resource allocation and talent pipeline.

Created a robust audit and compliance framework, ensuring strict adherence to employment regulations across all locations.

Successfully delivered integrated HRIS and talent management systems implementation on time and within budget, enhancing operational efficiency.

Verizon - Global Customer Operations
|

HR Lead (EMEA)

Dublin, Dublin, Ireland

Summary

Delivered strategic HR leadership for Verizon's largest international division, supporting 1,600 employees across 21 countries, managing complex organizational change while maintaining operational excellence and regulatory compliance.

Highlights

Led strategic workforce transformation initiatives across five employment jurisdictions, achieving significant cost optimization.

Developed and executed a comprehensive HR operating plan for a major international technology division.

Managed complex organizational restructuring while maintaining high employee engagement and regulatory compliance.

Designed innovative employee experience programs, resulting in measurable improvements in engagement metrics.

Verizon Connect
|

Human Resource Director (International)

Dublin, Dublin, Ireland

Summary

Held international HR leadership responsibility spanning 15 countries across EMEA, APAC, and LATAM for a world-leading fleet management and connected vehicle technology business, managing strategic workforce planning, compensation, and organizational development.

Highlights

Successfully integrated eight corporate acquisitions across Europe and Australia into a unified organizational structure.

Led cultural transformation and change management initiatives across multiple acquired entities, fostering cohesive work environments.

Developed an award-winning global employee onboarding program, improving early engagement metrics by 36%.

Achieved a 91% satisfaction rating through the implementation of an agile HR service delivery model.

Managed comprehensive talent development and succession planning programs across international operations.

Skillsoft
|

Group Human Resource Manager

Dublin, Dublin & London, Ireland

Summary

Supported the Global HR Director in developing and implementing strategic HR functions for a leading e-learning software development company, managing HR operations across three regions with responsibility for 180+ employees.

Highlights

Implemented a comprehensive ROI measurement system for HR interventions and established a preferred supplier framework.

Designed a centralized recruitment portal, streamlining application processes and improving candidate experience.

Created service level agreements for recruitment activities, enhancing stakeholder relationships and service quality.

Education

National College of Ireland
Dublin, Dublin, Ireland

MA

Strategic Human Resources

Grade: 2.1

National College of Ireland
Dublin, Dublin, Ireland

BA (Honours)

Accounting and Human Resource Management

Grade: 2.1

Awards

Verizon All In Award

Awarded By

Verizon

Recognition for driving business transformation and delivering exceptional results.

Emerging Leaders Programme

Awarded By

Verizon

Selected for strategic leadership development across EMEA operations.

Publications

The Value of a Welcome

Published by

Published Contributor

Summary

Focusing on innovative onboarding practices.

Languages

English

Certificates

CIPD Accredited (Specialising in HR Management)

Issued By

CIPD

Skills

HR Leadership

Strategic HR Leadership, Organisational Development, Change Management, Workforce Planning, Performance Management, Global Talent Strategies, Stakeholder Management, Talent Development, Succession Planning.

International HR & Compliance

Multi-jurisdictional Employment Law, Cross-border Compliance, International Employment Standards, Audit and Governance Procedures, Regulatory Compliance.

HR Technology & Digital Transformation

HRIS Implementation, HRIS Optimisation, AI Integration, Digital Transformation, Workforce Analytics, Talent Management Systems, Automation Systems.

Operational Excellence

M&A Integration, Crisis Management, Process Optimisation, HR Operations, Service Delivery Models.

Industry Experience

Technology Sector, SaaS Businesses, High-Tech Environments, Telecommunications, E-learning, Fashion and Lifestyle, Manufacturing Sectors, Private Equity Environments.