Rachel Pardoe

Rachel joined Talbots in 2014 and has played a key role in its growth and evolution ever since. As Chief People Officer and a member of the Leadership Team, she works closely with colleagues across the business to bring the firm’s strategy to life - creating an environment where people feel they truly belong, can make a meaningful contribution, and have the opportunity to thrive.

Passionate about building a positive and empowering workplace, Rachel believes that people are at the heart of every successful business. She takes a hands-on, values-led approach to HR, with responsibility for the full employee journey across the Talbots group—from attracting and developing talent through to performance, learning, and leadership. She supports career progression at every stage, from entry-level opportunities and graduate recruitment through to management, senior leadership and directorship pathways, ensuring individuals are supported to grow and succeed.

Born and raised in Stourbridge, Rachel studied English Literature and the History of Ideas at Kingston University after completing her A Levels at King Edward VI College.

Outside of work, Rachel enjoys live music (particularly rock and metal - anything with plenty of bass!), socialising, travel and cooking, and is passionate about spending time with family and friends. Family life revolves around her two young adult children and her long-suffering husband (who she met when he was playing in a local band back in the 90s). A regular gym-goer, she’s often found in HIIT classes (focusing firmly on the training rather than the talking), and she firmly believes coffee is an essential life ingredient.

She is also a self-confessed animal lover with a soft spot for bunnies, dogs and Jellycats, and brings a good dose of fun into life with her love of silly humour - think Bill & Ted, anything wonderfully chaotic from the 90s, and not taking things too seriously when the moment allows.

Rachel is actively involved in her local community, volunteering at Lifecentral Church across a number of teams, including as part of the core Alpha course team. She also volunteers with Festival Angels and plays a key role in leading and coordinating a large team of volunteers at Download Festival each June.