The Role
We’re looking for an experienced and proactive HR Specialist to lead all aspects of the employee lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding through to offboarding and performance management. You’ll serve as the go‑to HR contact, supporting staff and coaching managers while ensuring compliance with employment law. This role covers everything from employee relations, payroll, and benefits to maternity/paternity leave management and HR reporting. You’ll thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑growth environment, balancing strategic input with hands‑on execution, and playing a key role in shaping a positive, inclusive and high‑performing culture.
Key Responsibilities
Your tasks will include but not be limited to:
Day‑to‑Day HR Contact
- Act as the primary point of contact for all HR‑related queries from staff and management.
- Provide guidance and support on HR policies, procedures, and best practices.
- Offer coaching to managers on people management, conflict resolution, and performance issues.
- Respond to and resolve employee inquiries and concerns with discretion and professionalism.
- Maintain visibility and accessibility to foster strong employee relationships and trust.
Entire Employee Lifecycle Management
Probation Period Management
- Guide managers through performance assessments and documentation.
- Manage unsuccessful probation outcomes with fairness and legal compliance.
Offboarding
- Manage resignations, exit interviews, and handovers.
- Ensure return of equipment and proper closure of accounts.
- Prepare final documentation including P45s and reference letters.
Employee Support
- Provide clear, empathetic guidance to employees on entitlements, timelines, and documentation required.
- Schedule and conduct pre‑leave planning meetings to discuss expected timelines, pay calculations, KIT/SPLIT days, and the return‑to‑work process.
- Offer support in navigating government forms (e.g., MAT B1) and internal processes for requesting leave.
Manager Support
- Assist in workforce planning and temporary cover arrangements during employee absence.
Leave Administration
- Accurately calculate and process maternity/paternity/shared parental/adoption pay.
- Coordinate with payroll to ensure payments and deductions are made on time.
- Track leave dates, manage communications during absence, and monitor KIT/SPLIT day usage.
Return to Work Management
- Arrange return‑to‑work check‑ins and flexible working discussions where needed.
- Facilitate phased returns or accommodations as appropriate.
- Support reintegration into the team and discuss development opportunities post‑leave.
Holiday & Sick Leave Management
- Policy & Planning
- Administration
- Reporting
Employee Relations Management
- Provide advice and support on disciplinary and grievance procedures.
- Conduct investigations and recommend appropriate outcomes in line with company policy.
- Maintain up‑to‑date and legally compliant ER documentation and case records.
- Act as a mediator in employee disputes where necessary.
- Promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
Compliance & Policy Management
- Ensure company policies are up‑to‑date and in line with employment law.
- Regularly review and revise the employee handbook and internal procedures.
- Monitor HR compliance with GDPR