The HR experts who get small business
We're not your typical HR consultants.
We work exclusively with small businesses because we understand the unique challenges you face.
With over 100 years of collective experience, we've helped hundreds of businesses navigate their first hire, manage rapid growth, and everything in between.
Sarah Ropek
Founder
I spent the first decade of my HR career in large corporates, learning how people strategy—done well—can drive business success. But I also saw the flip side: slow change, buried value, and HR tangled in red tape.
In 2015, I set up The Fractional HR Department (previously People Management Partners) to do things differently. We work with small businesses and startups to build practical, effective HR that shapes culture, supports growth, and makes a visible difference to the bottom line.
Outside work, I’m usually chasing fresh air with my husband and two small kids (preferably at the seaside) or tackling the never-ending project that is our house renovation.
Not ready for a discovery call just yet? Let’s still stay connected. You can follow me on LinkedIn or sign up to the monthly HR Insider for useful, no-fluff HR advice straight to your inbox. You can also hear me talk about all things HR on The HR Podcast
Katy Riordan
Head of Client Delivery
I’m a senior HR professional with over 20 years of experience across public and private sector organisations. I’ve developed particular expertise in private healthcare, but I’ve also worked with a wide mix of businesses—from membership organisations and distributors to creative and PR agencies.
I’m passionate about delivering HR support that’s practical and tailored to real business needs. I bring strong employment law knowledge, but I also understand that the best people practices aren’t just legally sound—they support culture, retain great people and help businesses grow. I enjoy the challenge of getting that balance right.
When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me mid-renovation on a property project, picnicking with family, or pottering around in the garden.
You can find out more about me and my professional experience on LinkedIn
Kate Mellor
Business Support Manager
I have over 20 years' experience in providing high level administration and business support across many industries. I am obsessively organised and logical and bring a wealth of experience in managing processes and implementing systems to improve the running of any business.
In my role I am responsible for developing and managing the processes and systems which support both the client facing and back-office functions. I also maintain our accounting software, providing financial reporting where required and look after our internal HR requirements.
Outside of work I am kept busy by my two sporting mad children and when I have time I enjoy time at the gym, cooking for my friends and looking after my small herd of Guinea Pigs!
You can find out more about me and my professional experience on LinkedIn
Emily Marsh
HR Administration Manager
I started my HR journey in 2017, transitioning from administrator to manager. Over the course of my career, I have gained invaluable experience within the Manufacturing and the Education sectors.
I am always looking for ways to continuously develop and enhance all processes to be effective and successful. I enjoy supporting the wider team and building professional relationships.
At The Fractional HR Department, my role is to oversee and lead the Support Team with their tasks and support the People Partners.
Outside of work I am part of a family of four, with two delightful young children. My time is mostly devoted to my children, their activities and attempting to maintain an aspect of tidiness at home. If I was ever to get time for myself I would love to get back into fitness.
You can find out more about me and my professional experience on LinkedIn
Natasha Fenton
Head of HR
I have spent over 20 years in the world of HR, supporting a wide range of organisations, from property data and insurance to hospitality, retail, local authorities, and the transport and infrastructure sector. Throughout this time I have developed a real passion for aligning HR with the bigger business picture.
Over the years I have worked closely with senior leaders and C suite through periods of significant change, including restructures, redundancies, and TUPE processes, always striving to support people with empathy and integrity
As a self confessed adrenaline junkie, I have already managed to tick skydiving and swimming with sharks and stingrays off my adventure list!
You can find out more about me and my professional experience on LinkedIn
Louisa Gartrell
People Partner
I’m an experienced HR professional with over 10 years of working across a variety of sectors, including private healthcare, charities, membership organisations, and global communications agencies.
I specialise in building strong, trusted relationships with managers and senior leaders, helping them feel confident in managing people and navigating change. I enjoy working in fast-paced, evolving environments and bring a calm, practical approach to every challenge.
Originally a music graduate, I still sing regularly with my choir and love an eclectic mix of live music. My weekends are mostly spent with family and friends — ideally over a good curry and a great cocktail.
You can find out more about me and my professional experience on LinkedIn
Rachel Field
People Partner
I have been in HR since 2009, working my way up from an HR Administrator. I have experience with SMEs across a range of sectors including charities, care, veterinary, automotive, hospitality and logistics to name a few.
I pride myself in offering a practical and down to earth approach to all aspects of my work. I also enjoy building strong, successful relationships with everyone, from employee to CEO.
Outside of work, I love going to live music and comedy events, and weekends and holidays these days are usually spent going on little adventures with my two young children.
You can find out more about me and my professional experience on LinkedIn
Sarah McNeil
People Partner
I’ve worked in HR for 10 years, primarily in the health and charity sectors. My background includes a strong focus on employee relations, as well as delivering projects around health and wellbeing, performance management, and organisational change.
I’m passionate about creating practical, people-first HR solutions that help businesses run more smoothly — whether that’s resolving a tricky people issue or reviewing the systems that support performance and growth.
Outside of work, I’m kept busy by my two young children. I make time to stay active through home fitness and adult ballet classes, and I love to travel, cook, and host friends and family whenever I get the chance.
You can find out more about me and my professional experience on LinkedIn.
Emma Sullivan
HR Coordinator
I’m a dedicated and organised HR generalist with over 10 years of HR administration experience across a range of sectors. I take pride in delivering efficient, reliable support and building strong relationships with clients through a friendly and professional approach.
I enjoy the variety of working with different businesses and supporting them behind the scenes to keep their HR processes running smoothly.
Outside of work, I like to stay active with fitness classes and long walks, and I’m always working my way through a good stack of books.
You can find out more about me and my professional experience on LinkedIn.
Ruby Jeal
HR Coordinator
I started my career in HR when I joined The Fractional HR Department as part of the kick-start scheme. During my time here I have had the opportunity to complete my CIPD Level 3 and support businesses across all sectors with their HR and recruitment administration.
With a friendly and logical approach, I enjoy engaging with the businesses we work with to provide a high-quality and responsive service.
Outside of work, you’re likely to find me spending time with my friends and family or out walking my dogs.
You can find out more about me and my professional experience on LinkedIn
Claire Blessings
People Advisor
I am an experienced HR Advisor and certified Mental Health First Aider, specialising in absence management, employee relations, and employee wellbeing. With a people-first approach and a strong track record across sectors.
I am passionate about supporting wellbeing and fostering positive, compliant workplaces.
Outside of work, I enjoys reading, history, nature walks, and spending time with my family and beloved pets.
You can find out more about me and my professional experience on LinkedIn.
Lara Morris
Marketing Assistant
I joined The Fractional HR Department as Marketing Assistant and i am currently completing my MCM Level 3 Apprenticeship. In my role, I support the business with digital marketing, content creation and campaign coordination to help strengthen our brand and online presence.
I’m passionate about learning, growing my skills and contributing to projects that help the business connect with its audience in meaningful ways.
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my friends and family.
You can find out more about me and my professional experience on LinkedIn.
Sign up to the HR insider
Get practical tips, insightful case studies, free resources and the latest on HR technology delivered straight to your inbox, personally crafted by our founder, Sarah.