This January, Dawson Kaveney HR is celebrating its first birthday under the stewardship of experienced HR Consultant, Helen Dawson.
Originally founded in 2008 by Sue Kaveney as Kaveney HR Solutions Limited, the business became Dawson Kaveney HR in January 2022, when Helen Dawson took over ownership.
Helen, Owner and HR Consultant, said, “Here we are 12 months in and what a year it has been. One of the things I can say for sure is that I’ve never looked back! There’s been highs, some lows, plenty of challenges and of course a few funny stories too.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me through the year, my customers, suppliers and my amazing support network of friends, family and professional colleagues. I’ve also been incredibly lucky to have Sue (Kaveney) coach me through my first year and pass on her many years of HR consultancy wisdom.”
Set amongst a backdrop of economic uncertainty and challenging times for Cumbrian businesses, Helen has nevertheless enjoyed helping clients with their range of people issues.
She said, “I’ve really enjoyed my first year of HR Consultancy and have been lucky to work with so many fabulous clients – it really has been a pleasure!
“I’m in awe of businesses that – against all the economic challenges – continue growing and expanding, even if that’s as simple as taking on their first employee.
“As an HR professional, I’m constantly amazed by people, the good and the bad, and it’s one of the things I have always enjoyed about HR.
What has Helen found of her first year as a business owner and HR freelancer? She continued, “When asked what I’ve enjoyed the most, the first word that springs to mind is usually: variety. Life as an HR consultant is never dull and the whole day can change within one phone call!
“We all learn, all of the time. Even as an experienced HR professional, there are things that come across my desk that I need to read up or take advice on. It’s easy to see that as a weakness, but people are people and we just can’t plan for everything!
“I’ve also seen how difficult it can be for business owners to find a trusted advisor, a confidant or someone to talk to when times are tough, or they just don’t know what to do. I’ve had the most satisfaction from helping, guiding and supporting the clients who have chosen me to do just that.”
Helen shows no signs of being deterred on her journey as a freelancer HR professional and business owner. She concluded, “To anyone who is thinking about branching out on their own as a freelancer, in HR or otherwise, I’d absolutely recommend it! There’s variety and a great network of businesses – we can all help each other. It can be tough, but the satisfaction for me, far outweighs the challenges of self-employment.”
Outside of her professional life, Helen enjoys time with her family and friends and getting creative with sugar craft on occasions! Helen’s friends describe her as honest, reliable and good fun to be around: all traits that Helen likes to apply to her work too.
Dawson Kaveney HR offers a complete range of HR services including HR health checks, specialist support, recruitment and retention, performance and absence management, training packages and legislation compliance for businesses in Cumbria and throughout the UK. Find out more at www.kaveney-hr.co.uk.
