Deputy HR Manager-UK

BYD Europe; Hounslow; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent automotive company seeks a Deputy HR Manager to support the HR Manager in leading the HR team. This role encompasses strategic and operational duties including employee relations, compliance with UK laws, and talent management. Candidates must have over 5 years of HR experience, ideally with a CIPD qualification, and a strong understanding of UK employment legislation. The position combines leadership with hands-on involvement in various HR functions.

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ HR experience with employee relations and people management exposure.
• Experience in a deputy/assistant manager or senior HR advisor role.
• Strong working knowledge of UK employment legislation.

Responsibilities

• Deputise for the HR Manager and ensure smooth HR operations.
• Manage complex employee relations cases.
• Oversee recruitment processes and improve employee engagement.

Skills

Employee relations management

Strategic thinking

Problem-solving

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field

CIPD Level 5/7

Tools

HRIS systems

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Job Title:

Deputy HR Manager (UK)

Location:

Uxbridge, London, UK

Reports to:

HR Manager

Role Overview

The Deputy HR Manager will act as the second-in-command to the HR Manager, supporting the leadership of the HR team and deputising in their absence. This role combines both strategic and operational responsibilities, including employee relations, policy implementation, compliance with UK employment law, and driving HR projects. The Deputy HR Manager will also play a key role in talent management, organisational development, and ensuring HR practices align with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

1. HR Leadership & Support

• Deputise for the HR Manager in their absence, ensuring smooth running of HR operations.
• Support the HR Manager in leading the HR team and fostering a high-performance culture.
• Act as a trusted advisor to managers and employees on HR matters.

2. Employee Relations & Compliance

• Manage complex ER cases (grievances, disciplinaries, performance issues, redundancies, etc.).
• Ensure HR policies and practices are legally compliant and up to date with UK employment law.
• Provide coaching and training to line managers on ER best practices.

3. Recruitment & Talent Development

• Oversee recruitment and selection processes, working with hiring managers to attract top talent.
• Support succession planning, career development, and learning initiatives.
• Implement strategies to improve employee engagement, retention, and wellbeing.

4. Performance & Reward

• Lead performance appraisal cycles, ensuring fairness and consistency.
• Work with HR Manager to review compensation, benefits, and reward structures.
• Provide input into salary reviews and bonus processes.

5. HR Operations & Projects

• Ensure accurate HR data management, reporting, and analytics.
• Support payroll coordination and benefits administration with relevant departments.
• Lead or contribute to HR projects such as diversity & inclusion, employee engagement, and change management.

Key Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field (CIPD Level 5/7 strongly preferred).
• 5+ years’ HR experience, including proven employee relations and people management exposure.
• Experience in a deputy/assistant manager or senior HR advisor role.
• Strong working knowledge of UK employment legislation.
• Excellent interpersonal, influencing, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite.