HR Advisor

Strategy Education; Grays; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK-based education consultancy is seeking a full-time HR Advisor to support a further education college. This role involves advising on HR matters, coaching managers, and managing recruitment processes. Candidates should have CIPD Level 3 and experience in a busy HR environment. Joining a supportive HR team, you'll help foster a positive staff culture and engage in various HR initiatives. Applications are encouraged for this rewarding position that starts in early 2026.

Qualifications

• CIPD Level 3 or equivalent qualification required.
• Experience as an HR Advisor in a busy HR environment necessary.
• Understanding of employee relations and employment legislation.

Responsibilities

• Provide first-line advice on HR-related issues.
• Coach managers on HR policies and appraisals.
• Manage HR enquiries and support recruitment processes.

Skills

HR advisory skills

Coaching

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

CIPD Level 3 or equivalent

CIPD Level 5 or relevant degree

Job description

Strategy Education are working with a further education college in Essex who are recruiting for an HR Advisor.

The role is full time and starts January or February 2026.

In this role, you will:

• Providing first-line advice on disciplinary, grievance, capability, absence, and performance management issues.
• Coaching managers on policies, procedures, probation, and appraisals.
• Leading and promoting wellbeing initiatives across campuses.
• Supporting absence management and liaising with external partners where needed.
• Producing accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual HR reports.
• Driving the annual appraisal cycle.
• Managing a high volume of HR enquiries with efficiency and care.
• Supporting recruitment processes and delivering monthly staff inductions.
• Preparing HR documentation including contracts, payroll inputs, DBS checks, and employee records.
• Contributing to HR policy and process improvement.
• Assisting with payroll administration and safeguarding/PREVENT responsibilities.
• Offering cross-campus HR support and contributing to ad hoc projects.

We're looking for someone who is:

You will be someone who is confident, solutions-focused, and able to build strong relationships at every level. You'll bring a calm, professional approach to busy workloads and thrive in a collaborative environment.

Essential:

• CIPD Level 3 (or equivalent qualification).
• Proven experience as an HR Advisor in a busy HR environment.
• Sound understanding of employee relations and employment legislation.
• Excellent organisational and prioritisation skills.
• Strong communication, coaching, and influencing abilities.
• Ability to work independently while supporting senior HR colleagues.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.

Desirable:

• CIPD Level 5 or relevant degree.
• Experience with HR administration including payroll processes.
• Experience updating policies and procedures.
• Previous HR experience within education.

Why This Role Is Perfect for You:

You’ll be joining a supportive, forward-thinking HR team where your ideas, experience, and professional judgement will be valued. You’ll play a key role in shaping a positive staff culture and supporting the College's mission to foster an inclusive, safe, and inspiring workplace.

The successful HR Advisor will be subject to a variety of checks including eligibility to work in the UK, an enhanced DBS disclosure and full references including one from your most recent employer. Strategy Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

If you would like to be considered for this HR Advisor post, please apply today.