We currently have a fantastic opportunity for a HR Manager based in our Manchester office. As a HR Manager, you will take full ownership of the HR function in this standalone, hands-on role. Acting as the primary point of contact for all HR-related matters, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our company culture and embedding best practices across the business. As this is a newly created position it offers a unique opportunity to build and define the HR function. You will oversee the entire employee lifecycle, working closely with the Chief Operating Officer and senior leadership team youll have the autonomy to shape and develop the HR function and support the growth and wellbeing of our people. About Ascent We are a highly successful legal and financial services company. Our clients include major UK banks and global blue-chip companies, we have extensive experience in debt recovery, collections, mediation, litigation, and related services. We live by ourfive core values: Be pioneering Be approachable and caring Be tenacious Be efficient Show integrity Role Overview To lead the strategic and operational delivery of HR services with a focus on employee relations and recruitment. This role ensures the organisation attracts, retains, and supports a high-performing workforce while maintaining a positive and legally compliant employee relations environment that complies with FCA regulations and internal governance standards. Key Responsibilities Employee Relations: Act as a strategic partner to the business by embedding a proactive ER culture and enhancing managerial capability across the organisation. Provide expert advice and guidance to managers on complex employee relations issues including disciplinary, grievance, performance management, and absence management Ensure all ER processes are compliant with employment law, FCA regulations, and internal policies Support managers to lead investigations and support hearings, ensuring fair and consistent outcomes Monitor ER trends and risks, producing reports and recommendations for senior management. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of employment legislation and regulatory requirements Design and deliver training and development initiatives to upskill managers in employee relations practices, employment law updates, and effective case management HR Generalist: Contribute to the development and implementation of HR strategies and initiatives aligned with business objectives that enhance organisational effectiveness Ensure all HR practices align with FCA regulatory requirements, including SMCR (Senior Managers and Certification Regime) where applicable Maintain accurate and secure employee records in line with GDPR and FCA expectations Provide coaching to line managers Promote a culture of continuous improvement and employee engagement Recruitment & Talent Acquisition: Lead the end-to-end recruitment process, ensuring timely and effective hiring aligned with workforce planning and a positive candidate experience. Partner with hiring managers to define role requirements, create job descriptions, and develop sourcing strategies. Ensure recruitment practices are inclusive, efficient, and compliant with FCA standards. Manage relationships with recruitment agencies and external partners. Active involvement in recruitment activity such as assessment centres and interview as required Support onboarding processes to ensure smooth integration of new hires. Monitor recruitment metrics (e.g., time-to-hire, cost-per-hire) and implement improvements. Were looking for someone who brings: Proven experience in a hands-on HR operational role Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices Excellent communication and relationship-building skills Confidence in handling sensitive issues with professionalism CIPD qualification (Level 5 or above preferred) Excellent stakeholder management and attention to detail Resilient, adaptable, and commercially aware Benefits A Competitive benefits package including: Company Pension Scheme 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays (We have a buying holiday scheme that allows you to buy additional holidays during the annual holiday year) Health cash plan Critical illness cover Discounted legal services Season ticket loans Discounted online shopping Discounted gym memberships Cycle to work Private Medical Insurance Why Join Ascent? Youll be part of a forward-thinking organisation where your expertise will make a real impact. We offer a collaborative environment, opportunities for growth, and a culture that values innovation, care, and integrity.