Office address: Level 1, 14 Jervois Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011 
Website: www.cinchhr.co.nz 
Year established: 2018 
Company type: human resources services 
Employees: 4 
Expertise: human resources, HR consulting, HR software, employment law specialists, workplace health and safety, compliance management, disciplinary processes, onboarding systems, SME-focused solutions, policy development, HR document preparation 
Parent company: N/A  
Key people: Kim Rippin (CEO), Annika Doggett (operations and strategic HR business specialist), Benoit Chabord (chief digital officer), Michael Witt (legal consultant) 
Financing status: N/A 

Cinch HR, based in Auckland, offers tailored HR consulting and cloud-based compliance software for New Zealand SMEs. The NZ-owned firm simplifies HR complexities and offers businesses clarity and peace of mind with no-nonsense and solutions-focused services. Its team delivers customised support through consulting, proprietary software, and resources designed to enhance workplace outcomes and streamline operations effectively. 
 

History of Cinch HR 

Cinch HR was established in 2018 to redefine HR practices with a fresh and practical approach, moving away from outdated attitudes. The firm prioritised commercially focused solutions to support New Zealand SMEs effectively and efficiently. From its inception, it has specialised in employment law and health and safety guidance as it ensures employers receive clear and actionable advice.  

The company developed innovative cloud-based HR software to simplify compliance and process management for businesses of all sizes. In 2024, it introduced a Disciplinary Toolkit designed by HR and legal experts to streamline challenging workplace procedures. Cinch HR continues to empower organisations by offering straightforward, impactful solutions tailored to their needs.
 

Products and Services of Cinch HR 

Cinch HR provides a comprehensive range of HR tools and services for SMEs: 

• Cinch Software: cloud-based platform for managing employee files, HR processes, and compliance
   
• consulting services: HR advice and solutions tailored to unique business needs
   
• legal services: guidance on employment law, dispute resolution, and compliance
   
• health and safety: online systems and support to uphold workplace safety standards
   
• Cinch Shop: ready-to-use HR documents, templates, and toolkits 
   

The firm’s combined Cinch Package includes both software and dedicated HR support, ensuring businesses receive personalised guidance alongside efficient tools. This dual solution streamlines HR management while addressing specific organisational needs. 
 

Culture at Cinch HR 

Cinch HR’s operations are rooted in a deep understanding of the SME landscape, aiming to deliver practical and no-frills HR solutions tailored to business needs. Their approach combines the best practices of top HR firms with a down-to-earth perspective while balancing organisational goals with employee well-being. Clients praise their outcomes-driven service and flexibility, highlighting key advantages: 

• straightforward solutions: the no-fluff approach enhances HR performance, boosting staff engagement, retention, and workplace safety
   
• user-friendly tools: the online system simplifies HR tasks, offering expertise without requiring a full-time HR manager
   
• time efficiency: their onboarding and management processes save significant time while maintaining high support standards
   
• knowledgeable team: clients value the team’s professionalism, responsiveness, and ability to make HR processes stress-free
   
• compliance support: the platform ensures legal compliance with up-to-date resources and guidance from dedicated HR specialists 
   

Cinch HR’s culture includes supporting events like Pink Shirt Day to promote inclusivity and raise awareness against bullying. The team also celebrates occasions like Easter to foster positivity and connection. Their involvement in meaningful causes reflects a commitment to building stronger, more engaged workplaces.
 

About Cinch HR CEO Kim Rippin and Key People 

Kim Rippin, founder and CEO of Cinch HR, is recognised for her pragmatic leadership and extensive expertise in delivering effective HR solutions. Before founding the firm, she served as director at K&M Consulting, senior HR adviser at APN Holdings, and HR consultant at Sheffield Consulting. Colleagues describe her as highly skilled and committed to delivering excellence in every aspect of her work. 

The leadership team at Cinch HR combines diverse expertise to provide comprehensive support across various aspects of HR and business management: 

• Annika Doggett acts as an operations and strategic HR business specialist, managing workflow optimisation and supporting businesses with tailored HR strategies and solutions
   
• Benoit Chabord serves as Cinch HR’s chief digital officer, overseeing the development and implementation of the company’s innovative cloud-based HR software and digital infrastructure
   
• Michael Witt is a legal consultant, advising clients on employment law compliance, workplace disputes, and regulatory matters to ensure legal security and best practices
   

The Future at Cinch HR 

Cinch HR supports Pink Shirt Day by donating $50 for every workplace policy purchased within seven days, including their Bullying, Harassment, and Discrimination Policy. This initiative raises awareness, promotes inclusive environments, and reinforces their focus on building strong workplace cultures through effective leadership and policies. As they aim to champion kindness and inclusivity, the firm is set to further influence New Zealand workplaces positively. 

The company recently introduced a Disciplinary Toolkit designed by their legal and HR specialists to simplify complex workplace procedures. This resource includes practical templates and guidelines that help businesses handle sensitive processes effectively while maintaining compliance. Cinch HR will continue to support organisations in streamlining HR operations and managing workplace challenges with confidence by focusing on clear and actionable solutions.