Get to know Our Founder and Director, Margery McBain

Meet Margery McBain, the heart of Gravitate HR’s vision. As Founder and Director, Margery has seen Gravitate from grow from the basement offices of India Street, Edinburgh, to now servicing clients across the UK. In this blog, we asked Margery about her journey through the ever-changing world of HR. We talked about her day-to-day, her current macro focus and life outside work.

Where the journey began

“Tell us about yourself, how did you get into HR?”

My journey into HR began rather unexpectedly. Originally pursuing a career in Food Science or Technology, I found myself drawn into the world of human resources while completing my graduate scheme at Waitrose. It was then during my tenure as Assistant Staff Manager at John Lewis Edinburgh that I embarked on my CIPD journey, becoming a fellow in 2004. In 2006, I decided to start an outsourced HR services company to provide HR services into SMEs.

Life at Gravitate HR

“What is your role?”

As a Director at Gravitate HR, my focus is on providing strategic and operational leadership. I work closely with our team to deliver exceptional HR solutions to our clients, overseeing projects, and driving the development of our learning and development initiatives.

Although, every day at Gravitate can be different. Working with such a range of clients across industries gives me exposure to new and exciting challenges each week. My job continues to inspire me, and I am still continuing to learn 18 years after founding the business!

“What projects are you and your team working on at the moment?”

I am particularly focused on aiding SMEs in readiness for the impending October 2024 legislation, the Workers Protection Act (Amendment to the Equality Act 2010). Our team is diligently updating and crafting policies, conducting informative sessions, workshops, and fostering awareness about the forthcoming changes. We pride ourselves at Gravitate for being abreast to all the relevant legislation that could impact our clients’ businesses.

“What is the best thing about your job?”

The most fulfilling aspect of my role is the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of our clients. Guiding them through challenges and witnessing their growth and success is incredibly rewarding. I believe most of my team would agree that the trust placed in us by our client base is a hugely motivating factor.

HR’s place in today’s world of work

“With HR support, what are the main opportunities for businesses right now?”

There is a significant opportunity to proactively influence the culture, working practices and lived experiences for everyone at SMEs. Gravitate HR helps create inclusive workplaces that welcome diversity and identifies and manages difficult or inappropriate behaviour. The workplace landscape is evolving, with people seeking greater control over their work engagement, including when, where, and how they work. This shift extends to their collaborative experiences and the relationships they foster with colleagues.

A combination of this more complex working environment and the resultant preventative legislative approach by means there is more scope for SME leaders and managers to work through HR strategies that will support the business to achieve its objectives. Outsourced HR consultants help smooth out the bumps and give direction to assist in the journey.

Beyond the Office

“What do you do outside of work?”

I cherish moments spent by the sea, practicing yoga, and tending to my garden. I also enjoy meaningful conversations with friends and being present for my three wonderful children.

Ready to elevate your business with tailored outsourced HR solutions? Let’s start the conversation! Reach out to us at info@gravitatehr.co.uk and discover how we can empower your organisation’s success.