AWARD-WINNING HR SPECIALIST, SPEAKER AND PODCASTER.
ABOUT LOUISE KENNEDY
Louise Kenndy FCIPD is an award-winning HR leader, podcast host, and the Founder and Director of Oculus HR, one of the North East’s leading HR consultancies.
With over 20 years’ experience across sectors including automotive, manufacturing, healthcare, engineering, and tech, Louise has built a reputation for her practical, people-first approach and ability to translate HR complexity into clear, commercial action.
In 2013, she launched Oculus HR with no external investment, balancing a full-time role, family life, and the ambition to make HR more accessible for small and growing businesses. Today, Oculus supports over 400 organisations with tailored people strategies, training, and outsourced HR support.
Her leadership has been recognised with multiple awards, including:
Sunderland Business Entrepreneur of the Year
Best Small Business at the Women Inspiring North East Awards
Highly Commended Independent Business at the Sunderland Echo Business Excellence Awards
Beyond Oculus HR, Louise is a sought-after speaker and thought leader, sharing her insights at events including Sunderland Business Festival, International Women’s Day, and Wear Business Live. She also hosts The Louise Kennedy podcast, a candid space for honest conversations about leadership, people, culture and wellbeing.
A firm believer that business should be a force for good, Louise advocates for ethical leadership, workplace wellbeing, and empowerment at every level. She mentors entrepreneurs, supports community initiatives, and continues to champion women in businesses across the region.
Founded in 2013, Oculus HR is a multi-award-winning consultancy providing expert HR support, strategy, and training across the UK.
Under Louise’s leadership, the team partners with over 400 clients, from engineering firms and digital agencies, to GP surgeries and schools, helping them to navigate complex people challenges with clarity and confidence.
Oculus HR is known for combining commercial insights with compassion, always advising on what is morally right, not just legally required.
Its services span people support, people strategy, and training, empowering businesses to build strong HR foundations that sustain growth.
Through masterclasses, workshops, and mentoring, Louise and her term equip leaders to handle the real-world challenges or managing people, from performance and wellbeing to equality, culture, and change.
At its core, Oculus HR exists to make HR simple, human, and strategic, giving business leaders the confidence to lead well, and the freedom to grow.
AWARD RECOGNITION
