Purpose of the Role Take ownership of the operational management and delivery of HR services across Ellacotts, ensuring alignment with our vision, values and business strategy. You’ll play a key role in shaping a positive employee experience, maintaining compliance with UK legislation, and acting as a trusted advisor to leaders, employees, and external stakeholders. Key Responsibilities Strategy, Planning & Operations Partner with the Head of People & Innovation and management team to shape and deliver the firm’s people strategy Align HR initiatives with business goals to drive measurable outcomes Use data and insights to identify trends, risks and opportunities, recommending solutions where needed Oversee HR systems and employee records, ensuring accuracy and efficiency Support workforce planning and budgeting across salaries, training and HR activities Monitor trainee and apprentice progress, ensuring development, performance and study objectives are met Effectively manage a varied workload, balancing competing priorities while maintaining an excellent quality service Employee Relations & HR Expertise Provide expert, pragmatic advice on UK employment law and HR best practice Lead and manage a full range of employee relations matters, including absence, performance, disciplinary and grievance processes Review and enhance policies, procedures and working practices to support the evolving needs of the business Ensure HR processes are consistently followed and continually improved Talent Attraction Lead and develop the firm’s recruitment approach, working with agencies and internal stakeholders Drive a proactive, multi-channel attraction strategy (direct sourcing, social media, events, referrals and more) Ensure an efficient and high-quality candidate experience Talent Development Oversee onboarding and induction, ensuring a strong start for new joiners Identify and deliver learning and development initiatives that support individual and business growth Engagement & Retention Lead the employee engagement survey process, analysing results and supporting action planning Support reward and recognition approaches that drive retention and performance Create opportunities for employee voice and meaningful consultation Performance & Payroll Manage and evolve the firm’s appraisal process and cycle Coach managers on effective performance management Oversee payroll inputs for the external provider, ensuring accuracy and compliance External Insight & Partnerships Build and manage relationships with external providers (e.g. recruiters, training partners) Stay informed on legislative changes and market trends, driving appropriate organisational responses Internal Culture & Communication Support internal communications and key people initiatives Contribute to CSR activity, including social and charitable events across the firm Health, Safety & Compliance Support health and safety compliance, including risk assessments and first aid provision Leadership & Team Management Lead, coach and develop the HR team Delegate effectively and support continuous development within the team Contribute to wider firm initiatives and support partners as required What you’ll bring to the Role Skills & Experience CIPD qualified (or degree or equivalent experience) Minimum 5 years’ HR experience within a commercial environment, including at least 2 years at HR Manager level Strong, up to date knowledge of UK employment law Experience working in a commercial or professional services environment Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills Confident using HR systems and data to inform decisions Personal Qualities Credible, approachable and able to build trust quickly Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities Proactive, solutions-focused and commercially aware Resilient, driven and self-motivated Discreet and professional when handling sensitive matters Additional Requirements Based within commuting distance of Birmingham Willingness to travel to other offices as required Flexibility to work outside normal hours when needed