Job Description
We’re partnering with a well-established manufacturing organisation that’s continuing to invest in its people function and is now looking to appoint an experienced Senior Operational HR Advisor.
This is a highly visible, hands-on role where you’ll work closely with the HR Site Lead, senior leaders, line managers, and employees to deliver pragmatic, commercially focused people solutions. You’ll play a key role in supporting the delivery of the people agenda across site, driving high standards of employee relations, and ensuring HR supports operational performance and business priorities.
Joining a collaborative HR team, you’ll support the operational delivery of HR while contributing to wider organisational initiatives and continuous improvement, helping to foster a positive, high-performing workplace culture.
As Operational HR Manager, you’ll partner with the HR Site Lead and leadership team, providing expert guidance and ensuring effective HR practices across the full employee lifecycle.
Key responsibilities include:
* Supporting the HR Site Lead in delivering operational HR across the site, ensuring consistent, high-quality people support
* Acting as a key escalation point for employee relations matters, including within a unionised environment
* Providing expert advice and coaching to leaders on performance, absence, conduct, capability, and organisational effectiveness
* Driving compliance with HR policies, procedures, and UK employment legislation
* Building strong, credible relationships across the business, constructively challenging and influencing decision-making
* Supporting organisational change, workforce planning, and engagement initiatives alongside the HR Site Lead
* Using people data and HR metrics to inform decisions, identify trends, and improve outcomes
* Partnering with stakeholders to align people priorities with operational goals
* Contributing to HR projects that enhance processes, culture, and capability
* Promoting a proactive approach to employee engagement, wellbeing, and continuous improvement
* Working closely with the wider HR team to deliver a joined-up and consistent people approach
Experience:
* CIPD Level 5 or above (or equivalent experience), ideally working towards Level 7
* Proven experience in an HR Manager, Senior HR Advisor, or operational HR role
* Strong background within manufacturing, industrial, or similarly operational environments
* Experience supporting complex ER in a unionised setting
* Strong knowledge of UK employment legislation and HR best practice
* Experience supporting change initiatives in a fast-paced environment
* Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and collaborate
* A pragmatic, resilient, and people-focused approach