Perry Hamilton-Duirs

Perry Hamilton-Duirs is a Human Resources professional with a passion for people management. He is currently the Head of HR and EDI at Norwich City Football Club, where he is fortunate to provide support to the whole business in its operations.

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

My career path has been very varied and has included stints in hospitality, retail, administration, and sales. Somewhere along the way I was introduced to HR work and a switch in me turned on; it felt less like a career and more like a purpose.

Since then I have held senior and leadership HR roles in sectors such as social housing, repairs and maintenance, commercial services, and private healthcare. Currently, I am the Head of HR and EDI at Norwich City Football Club.

What does a typical work day look like for you?

There is no typical day when dealing with people. My days are usually split between strategic work (planning and policy development) and operational work (supporting my team and working with my HR portfolio).

A football club is made up of more than just the 11 people on the pitch and I’m fortunate that my role gives me exposure to the whole business, which in turn helps me better understand how to support the club in its operations.

Can you share a professional highlight from your career so far?

It’s always a highlight to see someone who I helped develop as an HR professional progress their career to the next level. That my job allows me the opportunity to teach the next generation of people professionals alongside the day-to-day is incredibly rewarding.

How did your time at Kent help you achieve your current career?

Being part of the Kent Falcons American Football Team undoubtedly taught me more about accountability, work ethic, teamwork, and leadership than any job role I’ve had previously.

Kent is also where I met my wife, who has been instrumental in my career development through her unending support and confidence in my ability to succeed.

What advice would you give to our current/prospective students who are looking to get into the same line of work?

You do not have to study HR to work in HR. You just need an interest in people and an ability to see and argue multiple sides of any issue at the same time.

Being that HR work is one of the few roles in an organisation that touches every aspect of the business, an ability to work with all levels of staff – from the front line to the Board – is essential.

Did you get involved in any extracurricular activities as a student?

I was involved with the Kent Falcons American Football team, as a player, a captain, and a committee member.

I also worked for Kent Union and was part of the first cohort of Student Licensees that ran the renovated Rutherford Bar when it first reopened.

Do you have a favourite memory from your time at Kent?

Having an annual team social named after me in 2007 – and knowing that it has run every year since – is pretty special.

Is there anything you would do differently if you could repeat your time at Kent?

I’d probably go to the gym more. You have so much free time as a student and don’t realise how expensive non-university gym memberships are!

Are you still in touch with other Kent alumni or academics?

I met my wife at Kent and we still maintain great friendships with former American football players and cheerleaders.

What are your future ambitions?

I want to continue to love what I do! When I stop loving it, it’s time to find something else.