To lead the Human Resources and Payroll function during a period of maternity leave, ensuring continuity, compliance, and high standards of service across all HR operations.
The HR Manager will provide trusted support to managers and employees, maintain consistent and professional HR processes, and ensure the business is well placed to manage upcoming employment law changes arising from the Employment Rights Bill.
They will also oversee the continued smooth running of the newly implemented Moorepay HR and payroll system, ensuring accuracy, data integrity, and effective day‑to‑day use.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
* Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on all HR matters including structure, performance, and workforce planning.
* Contribute to HR planning and ensure ongoing delivery of the existing HR strategy.
* Lead, coach, and develop the HR and payroll team to ensure a high‑quality service across all people processes.
* Drive a culture of continuous improvement and high performance.
Employee Relations & Policy
* Oversee all employee relations cases, providing expert advice and ensuring consistent and legally compliant outcomes.
* Develop, review, and implement HR policies and procedures in line with employment law and business requirements.
* Build management capability through training, coaching and supporting managers in dealing with employee matters (e.g. performance, absence, conduct, grievance).
* Ensure appropriate documentation and processes are followed in line with company policy and UK employment law.
* Monitor forthcoming employment law changes (including those arising from the Employment Rights Bill) and ensure policies, processes, and communications are updated in a timely and compliant manner.
Recruitment, Development & Retention
* Oversee end‑to‑end recruitment, ensuring attraction and selection of quality candidates.
* Work with department heads on succession planning, talent development, and internal mobility.
* Support delivery of the company’s training and development activities, ensuring statutory, compliance, and development needs are met.
* Champion the company’s approach to induction, onboarding and probation processes.
* Manage the apprenticeship programme.
Payroll & Systems
* Oversee monthly payroll processing in partnership with the payroll team, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
* Work closely with Finance on budget and reporting implications related to headcount, pay reviews and bonus schemes.
* Maintain and optimise use of HR and time & attendance systems, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality of data.
* Promote employee engagement and wellbeing initiatives, supporting a positive and inclusive culture.
* Support the Wellbeing Club and Employee Representative Forum.
* Lead on diversity and inclusion efforts across the business.
Compliance & Reporting
* Ensure full compliance with employment law, data protection and audit requirements.
* Monitor HR KPIs and prepare reports on headcount, turnover, absence, performance etc.
* Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date employee records.
Essential Qualifications and Skills
* CIPD Level 5 or 7 qualified.
* Demonstrated experience in a senior HR generalist or HR Manager role.
* Strong leadership and people management skills.
* In‑depth knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.
* Experience of managing HR teams and payroll function.
* Excellent interpersonal, coaching, communication, and influencing skills.
* High levels of discretion and professionalism.
* Organised and analytical with strong attention to detail.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office and HR systems.
Preferred Qualifications and Skills
* Experience in a manufacturing, FMCG, or family‑owned business environment.
* Comfortable working hands‑on while also contributing strategically.
* Experience with audit and compliance in HR settings.
* Understanding of payroll and basic finance processes.
* Experience in Moorepay or other such systems (For example ADP).
* Previous experience in providing maternity or interim HR cover would be advantageous.
Contract: Fixed Term (12‑15 months, to cover maternity leave)
* Reports to: Finance Director
Seniority level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Human Resources
Industries
Retail
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