We are the go-to HR experts for SMEs in Yorkshire
Let us save you time, protect your interests, solve your people problems and maximise the performance of your business.
Hello
We are apple hr support, and we’re here to help.
Our mission is to work with you to attract, retain and develop the most exceptional talent in your industry, so your business can perform at its best.
We’re a team of HR professionals, based in Horsforth, Leeds, with more than 60 years’ experience between us with expertise across sectors including: manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, finance, education, property and construction, professional services, retail, farming and tech.
Whatever your needs, we’ll find effective solutions that work to boost your business.
We are your HR department.
Who we help
Our specialism is supporting small and medium-sized employers (anything from one to around 200 employees) across any industry.
We can work with you remotely or, if you’re based in or around Leeds, we’ll support you on site.
Whether you’re a start-up, a scale-up or more established, we’re happy to help.
How we work
As one of our valued clients, you’ll benefit from:
- A completely bespoke service, with packages tailored for you
- Flexible support to suit your specific goals and budget, we’ll work with you for as little or as long as you need us
- Our trusted guidance and legally-compliant advice
- Your choice of in-person and/or remote support
- A commercial approach with practical, creative and honest solutions
- Assurance that respect is at the heart of everything we do
Specialist expertise
We collaborate with a trusted network of professional associates, bringing a range of specialisms and varied sector-specific experience.
From payroll to pensions, mental health to mediation, the specialists we work with are all fully-qualified to deliver effective, quality solutions.
Our services
Each business is unique, which is why all our services are bespoke and tailored to what will work best for you.
We’ll deliver advice, expertise and creative solutions at every stage of the employee journey.
Find out more about our packages and pricing here.
Meet the Team
Kate Appleyard, MCIPD
Founder and HR Director
Professional Background: I have 20+ years of HR experience from a range of sectors including retail, manufacturing, distribution, fashion and public sector. This includes senior global roles at ghd and Morrisons.
I’m a qualified Mental Health First Aider and am passionate about raising mental health awareness in the workplace. I’m also an ILM qualified coach and mentor, accredited in using the Odin Development Compass focussing on making more of your natural strengths and potential.
I believe that:
- No matter the situation, the best approach is to treat your employees with respect.
- A diverse workforce in an inclusive environment leads to better business outcomes.
When I’m not working you’ll find me: at a dance class or on the side lines cheering on my kids with their sports. I love to cook for friends and family and any opportunity to listen to live music.
Janet Schofield, MCIPD
HR Director
Professional Background: I spent 20 years working in professional services businesses in a variety of HR positions. Leaving in-house HR to be an independent consultant has broadened my experience across a range of industries and professions. My knowledge is continually strengthened through my relationships with business owners and employment law experts.
I believe that:
- Good communication is the key to handling people matters – listening is as important as talking.
- Employee engagement is crucial in retaining talent.
- Change is inevitable so embrace it rather than avoid it.
When I’m not working you’ll find me: walking with friends in the Yorkshire countryside (which is all the better if a tearoom or pub is involved!), spending time with my teenage daughter and our gorgeous cat Roxy and generally enjoying life with friends and family.
Angela Appleby, MCIPD
HR Consultant
Professional Background: Before joining apple hr, I spent 15 years working in a range of HR roles in the UK Financial Services sector. I also spent 8 years running my own small business. I’m CIPD qualified with a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management.
I believe that:
- People & Culture (HR) is a business enabler and should never be a blocker.
- It’s best not to manage your people with complicated policies and unnecessary rules. Keep it simple.
- Work is not life, work is part of life.
When I’m not working you’ll find me: providing a reliable taxi service to my three children, watching a gritty crime drama, brunching with friends or planning my next holiday…
Georgia Baker, Assoc.CIPD
HR Assistant
Professional Background: My HR career began with apple hr in 2020 while completing my Master’s Degree. Since then, I have completed an Apprenticeship in Human Resources Management and gained tonnes of experience working with clients of various sizes, industries and needs.
I believe that:
- Good communication is the route to every solution. How can we help without knowing there is an issue?
- If you can be anything today, be kind.
- File notes are your friend.
When I’m not working you’ll find me: far away from my laptop. Whether it’s in the kitchen cooking up a storm, out with friends or walking one (more likely all) of our five family dogs – Oscar, Harvey, Benji, Rudy and Elsie.
Louise Charles
Executive Assistant
Professional Background: Before joining apple hr I worked in a number of sales related roles including medical and retail sales. Most recently I have worked for smaller, independent businesses, supporting them with moving their business forward and helping them to pull projects through to completion.
I believe that:
- A problem shared is a problem halved.
- We never know what someone might be going through, so try to be kind and patient.
- The best things in life aren’t things.
When I’m not working you’ll find me: having a day out with my family, baking something chocolate related or browsing homes and interiors books.