HR Business Partner

CMA Recruitment Group; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable recruitment agency based in Portsmouth is seeking a HR Business Partner for a 6-month office-based role. This position involves providing expert HR advice, drafting policies, and supporting management with employment-related matters. The ideal candidate should hold a CIPD Level 5 qualification and possess strong knowledge of UK employment law. A friendly team environment and potential for impactful contributions in a growing business await the successful applicant.

Benefits

Parking

Supportive team environment

Opportunity to shape HR in a growing business

Qualifications

• Experienced HR professional with CIPD Level 5 or higher.
• Strong background in handling complex employee relations matters.
• Comfortable working in an SME with a practical approach.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert advice on employee relations issues.
• Draft and update HR policies in line with UK employment law.
• Lead on employment tribunal preparation.
• Support business change projects and engage with line managers.

Skills

Expert advice on employee relations

CIPD qualified (Level 5 minimum)

Strong knowledge of UK employment law

Excellent communication skills

Ability to work autonomously

Education

CIPD Level 5 qualification

Job description

Our client, a long-established SME based in Portsmouth, Hampshire is seeking a HR Business Partner to join their fast-paced business. Offered on a 6-month duration basis, you will be the go-to expert for all things people and employment law related. You ll work closely with the leadership team to support day-to-day HR matters, lead on complex cases, and ensure the business remains legally compliant while keeping their people at the heart of every decision.

What will the HR Business Partner role role involve?

• Provide expert advice on employee relations issues, including disciplinary, grievance, absence, performance, and capability cases
• Draft and update employment contracts, handbooks, and HR policies in line with UK employment law and best practice
• Support business change projects such as restructures, TUPE transfers, and policy implementation
• Coach and support line managers on HR processes and employee engagement
• Lead on employment tribunal preparation and liaise with external legal partners where required
• Keep the business updated on changes to employment legislation and recommend proactive actions
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and compliant working culture

Suitable Candidate for the HR Business Partner vacancy:

• CIPD qualified (Level 5 minimum, Level 7 or Chartered status preferred)
• Strong working knowledge of UK employment law with a solid background in handling complex ER matters
• Comfortable working autonomously in an SME environment with a practical, hands‑on approach
• Excellent communication skills with the confidence to influence managers and directors
• A team player who enjoys working closely with people across the business
• Experience in a regulated, manufacturing, or engineering SME is a bonus but not essential

Additional benefits and information for the role of HR Business Partner:

• Office based role
• Full time, 37.5 hours per week
• Parking
• A friendly, down‑to‑earth team environment
• Opportunity to shape and support HR in a growing business

CMA Recruitment Group is acting as a recruitment business in relation to this role. CMA complies with all relevant UK legislation and doesn t discriminate on any protected characteristics. By completing the application process, you agree to the terms outlined in our Privacy Notice and that CMA may contact you in connection with your application in relation to CMA providing you with work finding services. Our Privacy Notice can be viewed under the privacy tab on our website. CMA is currently receiving a high volume of applications. Whilst we ensure all applications are considered, regrettably, it may not be possible to respond individually to all applications received.