About Colin Poynter
Experienced, independent advice. A practical approach. Personal support when managing people becomes difficult.
I’m Colin Poynter, an independent HR and employee-management consultant based in Herefordshire and a Chartered Member of the CIPD (MCIPD).
I help employers work through difficult employee issues and make sound, practical decisions. My experience combines managing people with advising employers on challenging employee-relations matters.
I work primarily with small and medium-sized businesses and not-for-profit organisations. When you engage me, you work directly with me — from our first conversation through to the support you need.
Clear advice, grounded in experience
Employee issues rarely arrive as neat, isolated problems. There may be a history to understand, different accounts of what happened and pressure to reach a decision while keeping the organisation running.
I take time to understand that context. My aim is to help you establish what matters, consider your options and decide how to proceed. I explain the practical implications and risks, as well as the process, so you can make an informed decision.
You may need a sounding board, guidance for a manager or independent involvement in a particular piece of work. The support should fit the situation.
My approach: doing simple things well
Good employee management starts with clear expectations, regular feedback and a willingness to address concerns early. I help managers prepare for difficult conversations and take action before problems become more serious.
Where formal action is needed, I believe in establishing the facts, giving people a fair opportunity to respond and making a considered decision.
Do what is right, not simply what is easy.
My advice is grounded in employment law and good management practice, while recognising the practical realities of running a business. I aim to bring clarity to difficult situations and avoid unnecessary complexity.
What you can expect from me
- Direct access to me. You will deal with the person providing your advice and support.
- A considered, independent view. I will listen carefully, ask questions and help you look at the situation objectively.
- Straightforward explanations. You will understand the options, the concerns to consider and the next steps.
- Support suited to your organisation. I take account of your circumstances and the people involved, rather than relying on standard scripts.
Based in Herefordshire, working across the UK
I particularly welcome enquiries from businesses and not-for-profit organisations in Hereford, Leominster, Ledbury, Ross-on-Wye and the surrounding area.
I also work with employers across the UK, providing support remotely and in person as required. Whether you need help with one employee issue or continuing HR support, we can discuss an approach that suits your organisation.
Let’s discuss how I can help
If you would like to talk through a situation or find out more about working with me, I offer a free initial consultation. It is an opportunity to explain what you need and explore whether I am the right person to help.