HR Business Partner - £60k
A premium early years network of distinct, boutique nursery schools across London and the South of England that combines diverse educational philosophies with a direct pathway into a wider independent school network are looking for an HR Business Partner to join the team.
As their HR Business Partner, you will act as a trusted advisor across a network of 7 nursery groups, spanning 26 settings. This is a hands-on, vital role designed for a resilient HR professional with deep Employee Relations expertise in a regulated, people-intensive environment. You will be the strategic backbone for our managers, guiding them through high-volume, complex ER cases and safeguarding-linked HR matters. Your focus will ensure they maintain a safe, compliant, and positive working environment where our teams can thrive.
Responsibilities
* Lead and manage complex ER cases end-to-end, including disciplinary and grievance investigations, safeguarding-related HR issues, long-term sickness, and sensitive complaints.
* Partner with Nursery Managers and Regional Directors to build capability. Coach them to handle ER issues confidently, manage difficult conversations, and apply consistent decision-making.
* Ensure all cases and investigation processes align perfectly with UK employment law, Ofsted expectations, and EYFS requirements.
* Analyse trends in ER cases, attendance, and exit data to implement proactive strategies that reduce absenteeism and turnover.
* Review and update HR policies to ensure they are practical for operational teams, legally compliant, and consistent across all nurseries.
Who You Are
* An ER Expert, you bring significant HR business partnering or senior advisory experience, with deep expertise in managing high-volume, complex cases. Knowledge of UK employment law and multi-site operations is essential. Experience in nurseries, education, or healthcare is highly desirable.
* You have strong influencing skills and a proven track record of confidently guiding stakeholders through challenging, high-risk, or sensitive situations.
* You are resilient under pressure, possess high integrity, and balance empathy with the ability to make tough decisions.
* You hold a CIPD Level 5 or 7 (or equivalent experience). Safeguarding training is a distinct advantage.