Contract: 20 hours per week across 5 days, permanent. Chelmsford based. Hybrid working - across 4 childcare settings in and around the city and from home. “Everything is possible, even the impossible.” Mary Poppins Jesters Childcare are an Early Years and Wrap Around service with sites in Beaulieu - Chelmsford, Bicknacre and Danbury. We are committed to giving every child the best possible start in life. Our teams are warm, dedicated and passionate about early years and education — and we’re looking for an HR Manager who shares that passion for people. The Role As our HR Manager, you will be the driving force behind a positive, supportive and high-performing workplace culture across all Jesters Childcare sites. You’ll lead on HR strategy, oversee day-to-day operations, and ensure our settings remain exceptional places to work and learn. Key Responsibilities Lead and develop the HR function across multiple nursery and Out of School settings. Oversee recruitment, onboarding and retention of early years practitioners and support staff. Provide expert guidance on employee relations, performance management and HR policy. Ensure compliance with employment law, safeguarding requirements and sector-specific regulations. Support managers with training, coaching and professional development planning. Maintain accurate HR records, reporting and workforce planning. Champion wellbeing, engagement and a positive organisational culture. Drive continuous improvement in HR processes and staff experience. About You You’ll thrive in this role if you are: An experienced HR professional (CIPD Level 5 desirable). Confident managing HR across multiple sites. Skilled in employee relations, recruitment and HR best practice. Passionate about supporting teams who work with children. Highly organised, proactive and able to build strong relationships at all levels. Knowledgeable about safeguarding and safer recruitment (or willing to train.) “There’s nowhere to go but up.” Mary Poppins Careers soar at Jesters – spread your wings today! PLEASE NOTE That unfortunately, this role does not meet the government's requirements for a Skilled Worker VISA, so we are unable to offer sponsorship.