The initial interview went well, but it was a lengthy few weeks before the second interview occurred. This next stage involved an unusual setup where the other top candidate and I had to present a case study to each other in front of a panel. Though it felt odd, I participated. The panel provided us with a sheet detailing the company's HR statistics and tasked us with devising a three-month plan, assuming we were hired for the position. We had one hour to complete this challenge, and both candidates demonstrated competence. The process consumed the entire morning and part of the afternoon. In the end, the recruiter informed us that neither of us was selected, without giving a clear reason. Subsequently, the position was reposted on LinkedIn and other job boards. It seemed to me that they might be looking for a South African as their Head of HR as the company has South African roots - in all honesty it is their prerogative to hire who they want as UK legislation permits employers to positively discriminate! But why waste the time of the candidates? If this is what you were looking for? Just be more transparent instead of leading candidates on? For a pointless exercise. In addition certain unprofessional comments were made about the HR team and it goes to show the lack of empathy the interviewing panel have! Best wishes to the eventual hire - as the leadership team seems impossible to please and it was a chaotic process and in the end we were given cheap sandwiches that tasted like sandpaper. Another observation, the office lacks diversity and this is something they do not wish to want to change.