Karen Owen-Smith, MD and HR/H&S Consultant

Following a five year career in the Legal Services Department of Cheshire County Council, Karen was accepted as a Trainee Solicitor at leading North West Law firm DWF Solicitors.  After having her two children (Louise and Harry)  Karen then progressed to work for high street law firm Wilde and Co in Neston where she practiced Commercial Litigation, Employment Law, Commercial Property and Probate.

Karen was then asked to set up the business side of Manor House Stables LLP in 2006.  From scratch Karen successfully implemented all the working practices, policies and procedures in HR and H&S whilst also completing a Post Graduate qualification in HR and numerous H&S qualifications. Karen has Chartered CIPD accreditation.

Karen also passed the International Operators Licence and was responsible for the transportation of the Manor House Stables LLP LGV’s throughout the UK and Europe. She therefore has a vast knowledge of transportation and logistics.

Karen set up OSM Consultants in 2010 after having the “crazy” idea to set up her own consultancy practice. She has never looked back!!!

Karen also has a BA Hons Degree in Business and a Post Graduate Degree in Law.

On behalf of her clients Karen has the unique ability of being able to draft complex Employment Contracts; Confidentiality Agreements; Policies and Procedures as well as implement HR essentials such as reducing sickness absence; performance management skills; management training; medication; recruitment; TUPE situations; grievances and disciplinaries.  Karen trains all levels of staff, managers and business leaders on a regular basis in both HR and H&S disciplines and  is an IOSH accredited Trainer and a Trainer in Manual Handling.

Karen is able to advise clients on all aspects of Health and Safety including policies and procedures; risk assessments; COSHH assessments; H&S Audits; fire risk assessments; training; general consultancy advice and assistance in clients gaining CHAS accreditation.

Karen is a self confessed workaholic and has a very high work ethic.  In her spare time she is Mum to Louise and Harry, wife to Steve and has 4 dogs, a pony, 2 ducks and several fish who keep her busy.  She also enjoys horse riding, jogging, water sports and watching football.

Karen describes herself as bubbly, outgoing, commercially focused and loyal. Colleagues at OSM could add a few more positive and constructive descriptions of Karen’s personality but we will leave that for you to decide when you meet her.