Mode Search is supporting a global organisation with the search for an interim People Partner to support field-based teams across Europe.
We are keen to speak with candidates with previous experience of partnering with store teams in Germany.
Fluency in German would also be an advantage.
Please note this role is a 12-month interim contract.
This role acts as a key advisor to managers and employees, delivering end-to-end HR support across the employee lifecycle while ensuring alignment with business objectives, compliance requirements, and a strong employee experience.
This position is based in London with a hybrid working model and requires regular travel to regional locations and retail sites as needed. The role operates within an EMEA structure and reports into a senior HR leadership position responsible for field-based HR business partnering.
The role
* Act as a trusted HR partner to managers and employees, supporting all aspects of the employee lifecycle including onboarding, internal moves, promotions, and exits
* Provide guidance and hands-on support for performance management and employee relations matters, ensuring consistency and compliance with local employment laws
* Manage and deliver cyclical HR processes such as engagement surveys, annual reviews, and compensation cycles
* Partner with recruitment teams and business leaders to support effective hiring and workforce planning
* Advise on job design, salary benchmarking, and internal mobility in collaboration with wider HR teams
* Support employees with benefits, leave of absence, and statutory entitlements, including complex or escalated queries
* Lead or support employee relations cases, including investigations, conflict resolution, and disciplinary processes in line with legal and organisational requirements
* Build strong relationships with stakeholders to foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performing work environment
* Engage with employee representative groups, unions, or works councils where applicable
* Support talent management processes including performance reviews, development planning, and succession planning
* Partner with learning teams to identify capability gaps and enable development initiatives
* Contribute to organisational design and change initiatives, including communication and stakeholder engagement
* Analyse HR data and metrics to inform decision-making and continuous improvement
* Maintain accurate HR records and ensure compliance with data protection and regulatory requirements
* Collaborate cross-functionally with teams such as Finance and Legal on planning, risk, and governance
Requirements
* Strong knowledge of employment law and HR practices across multiple EMEA markets
* Proven experience in employee relations, performance management, and HR operations
* Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, complex environment
* Excellent interpersonal, communication, and coaching skills
* Strong problem-solving capability with sound judgment and discretion
* Experience working across functions and managing projects or initiatives
* Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret and act on HR data
* Experience supporting organisational change and transformation initiatives
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools and HR systems (experience with HRIS platforms is advantageous)
* Demonstrated ability to build trust and influence stakeholders at all levels
* Adaptable, proactive, and solutions-oriented approach
* Fluency in English required; German would be an advantage
Please note that only successful candidates will be contacted.
To apply, please email