Our client are a fast-growing retail business with a workforce of approximately 900 employees, and they are looking for a dedicated HR Manager to join the team. This newly created role is an exciting opportunity for an experienced HR professional to make a significant impact by establishing foundational HR policies and procedures while playing a key role in shaping the future of the business.

The role will initially focus on building robust HR operations and compliance frameworks, with the opportunity to evolve into a more strategic leadership role as the business grows and matures.

Key Responsibilities

HR Operations and Compliance

• Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies, procedures, and handbooks to ensure compliance with employment law and best practices.

• Design and manage processes for recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and offboarding.

• Ensure compliance with employment regulations, including right-to-work checks, GDPR, and health and safety obligations.

• Manage employee relations cases, providing advice and support to managers on disciplinary, grievance, and other ER issues.

• Oversee and improve payroll processes in collaboration with the finance team.

Employee Engagement and Development

• Develop initiatives to enhance employee engagement, retention, and wellbeing across the workforce.

• Implement training and development programs to build capability and support career progression.

Strategic HR Development

• Partner with senior leadership to identify and address workforce planning needs.

• Drive organisational change and improvement initiatives as the company scales.

• Provide data-driven insights and analysis to inform business decisions, including reporting on HR metrics such as turnover, absence, and engagement.

• Support the Head of Operations in aligning the HR strategy with broader business goals.

Leadership and Collaboration

• Act as a trusted advisor to managers across the business, providing coaching and guidance on people management issues.

• Collaborate with department heads to support business growth and operational efficiency.

• Build and lead an HR team as the function grows, ensuring the delivery of a high-quality HR service.

Skills and Experience

• Proven experience in an HR Manager, HR Business Partner, or similar role within a fast-paced environment (retail or multi-site experience is a plus).

• Strong understanding of UK employment law and HR best practices.

• Experience creating and implementing HR policies, procedures, and processes from scratch.

• Confident handling employee relations cases, with excellent problem-solving skills.

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships across all levels of the business.

Ideally candidates will have:

• CIPD Level 5 (or equivalent) is essential; CIPD Level 7 is desirable.

• A proactive, hands-on approach with a can-do attitude.

• Strategic mindset, with the ability to balance operational and strategic priorities.

• Passion for creating a positive workplace culture and driving continuous improvement.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary

• 35 hour working week with earlier finish on a Friday

• 35 days holiday

• A chance to shape the HR function in a growing business

• Opportunities for career development as the business evolves

• A supportive and collaborative team environment